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‘Monsieur Spade,’ Would GM Dan Morgan-Burns Contract He Deserves Qualify for New Normal?

February 5, 2024February 29, 2024by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment

*No, that’s not GM Dan Morgan, I do my own version of Sam Spade, hard-boiled detective.*

Watched newest take on a hard-boiled detective series with Clive Owens, who, after putting a foot into bad guy’s face 7-8x during questioning, gives bloodied black ops guy instructions for his bosses, then answers question of ‘Why should they believe (you’re different)?’ with a simple, “Because you’re alive.”

‘Monsieur Spade,’ set in 1963 France, features political intrigue about guns, Algeria and constant subtitles. Spade disparages his own French along the line, but the overall story and action is strong enough to make watchers effort of necessary reading worthwhile. Sam Spades rep as not being shy with a gun from San Fran background is known.

Almost everyone in Charlotte who has suffered through The Tepper Years at helm of Panthers can get behind that Why should…? if not the because. In the short period of time since the Panthers 2023 season (2-15) mercifully ended – with enough media negativity about MrTeppers$ and meddling to sink a battleship – the operant feeling is a universal-deserved “Show us.”

A New Normal POV should include NOT being kicked around BOA Stadium.

GM Dan Morgan has the unenviable task of keeping defensive standout Brian Burns with Ejiro Evero’s #4 ranked squad, at a level of paycheck that should’ve been handled back in June.

Morgan is still remembered as a hitting machine on 2003 Super Bowl team, long before Luke Kuechly arrived. Whether he impresses his credibility on fans here won’t require literal boots to the face, but its not the time for being regarded as a nice guy either.

Head Coach Dave Canales

The departed Scott Fitterer proclaimed all Panthers needed to do in 2023 was plug in a good QB, even when it meant stripping the franchise of almost all offensive talent (and 2024 #1 pick) along the way. Most notable topper of course, DJ Moore moved to Bears (96 receptions/1364 yards/8TDs) and had a career year.

After giving Panthers credit for *finally* putting extra bodies in the O-line room instead of bouncing personnel around to cover injuries as operational theory, there’s no reason for piling on blame-wise when eight right guards and seven LGs passed through those positions. Bryce Young (thankfully) didn’t get broken, and since 62 sacks didn’t kill him, hopefully he learned lots.

That Panthers stole – a word that came up repeatedly – better personnel as entire NFL was searching for GMs, Head Coaches, and coordinator personnel outside their teams. Dave Canales came from Tampa Bay for the HC position, and brought Bucs receivers coach Brad Idzik along to be Offensive Coordinator. If they got All Pro Mike Evans to come too, THAT would be more than cool.

Being young, 42, and notably successful in getting well-dinged veteran QBs Geno Smith (Seattle, 2022 Comeback Player of the Year) and Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers) back on track, whether/how far Canales can move the whole Charlotte operation out of an extra nasty time since Tepper bought the team. https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/carolina-panthers-record-since-2018 There will be a plethora of free agent signings, Panthers will be looking at lots of extra possibilities. Haven’t heard a $$$ amount to go with six-year contract length yet…

Yes, you heard right, NFLPA team surveys rated Panthers facilities D-, with players 100% against the move from regular turf to composite because Tepper has a soccer team playing on same surface, and regular grass can’t take that.

Executive VP of Football Operations

New Executive VP of Football Operations Brandt Tilis, with14 seasons experience in the Kansas City Chiefs front office, three as Vice President of Football Operations (2021-23), will have plenty of input on Burns front, having served as the Chiefs lead contract negotiator for Patrick Mahomes 10 year, $450M contract.

There should be a huge organizational Whew! knowing they’ll keep Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero here another year. While still giving up too many points for an impotent offense to overcome – 24.5/game was 29th in league, barely behind Broncos 24.3 and Colts 24.4; Commanders were worst at 30.5), the 2023 Panthers ranked fourth in yardage (294 total yards per game, 122.4 rushing/171.5 passing). Panthers denying several teams requests to interview Evero for their DC roles was legitimate. https://www.footballdb.com/stats/teamstat.html?group=d&cat=t

Bill Belichick, Commanders OC Eric Bienemy, and Titans Mike Vrabel not getting new gigs in the significant number of changes is not Panthers problem now. To be a little snarky, that former Panther Coach Ron Rivera is interviewing for job swap as DC coach in Dallas, after Cowboys DC Dan Quinn went to Washington as Head Coach, thats two other organizations that have bigger concerns than Charlotte. Snyder is gone from Washington, so only Jerry Jones in Dallas has a twitchier reputation as an owner than Tepper right now.

Morgan, Canales, his overall assistants much more on same page than Reich’s all-star hires array. Cam Newton being an edgy dresser and great community ambassador means something less today. That Canales become the whisperer of QB touchdowns and wins from team is only valid concern.

— Jerry Jones didn’t keep McCarthy/Prescott because they’re good guys, 12-5 three straight years is a desirable level of winning, but its possible Belichick *didn’t* get a gig because he isn’t though.

Take the Points

While ‘No’ is going to be a common response for Panther fans on believing the next edition of team is going to be All That, its legitimate to take the relative points looking upward. Consider holding back any collective opinion that it *couldn’t* get worse than 2-15 felt for next two months to NFL draft, or seven months till home opener vs. Washington Commanders though.

Dave Canales has been given a six year contract (still haven’t heard a number to go with that), a decently different scale for a guy who made $400k as QB coach two years ago, but its kind of a penalty stroke on MrTeppers$. If Ben Johnson (Detroit) was putting a $15M per year figure on his candidacy, and the thankfully gone Matt Rhule got 7 years/$60M, midpoint on that would be $12M-13M+.

Many opine math of paying off a third big coaching contract, if he gets antsy about un-major progress, should give even a billionaire owner like Tepper reason to let his football people control operations and actually STAY in background, not just use it as a line with a reporter.

Business, Community based pr, Sports

Fans and #MrTeppers$$ are Dissatisfied, Charlotte Teeters on ‘Loserville,’ Young survives 2023

January 2, 2024January 10, 2024by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment

*Looking good for NYE always counts, but even Daddy Warbucks cut couldn’t save Panthers from a shaved monkey effort vs. JAX*

Nobody is likely to say it out loud and proud, Charlotte area sports fans are having a crisis of belief in local teams. That the Pistons lost 28 in a row is only a distraction to our own situation (5-27). There’s Fields doubters and another #1 pick possible in Chicago, both NY teams, with $45M Rodgers and Zack the Unloved, plus Danny’s $40M ACL, are bigger deals, Discomfort with sub.500 in Charger-land with strong armed Herbert, and gutless-cheap leadership? We got a guy doing double duty here!

Cleveland? Yeah, $92M into Watson deal, still something seriously wronger there QB-wise, but congrats to Flacco and Brown’s defense. Patriots? (Bleep) Belichick.

Truly, a great many teams are dissatisfied with their football prospects this late in their seasons. Hey, they’re barking about playing bad for real in Philly, and Kansas City too. That 7’4″Wembanyama kid in San Antonio, getting 18.9 pts., 10.3 rebounds, 3 blocks, and Spurs are 5-27. Forty, maybe sixty more pounds, he’ll be the second coming of Ralph Sampson.

Saturdays dinner date seemed to hedge her approval on my acceptance of her poor USC (5-7) Gamecocks, so losers are everywhere, not just Panthers.

Chicago must’ve felt the love, at least they sent thanks again for officially gaining Panthers 2024 #1 overall pick – and of course, for DJ Moore having his best day ever.

Does the last game matter?

While a considerable number of teams are still technically alive in the NFL parity world, #MrTeppers$$ took an unkind swerve with what’s inevitably going to be labeled a #TepperToss while at game in JAX. Feeling foolish, maybe a little thin-skinned DT? Sure seems like it. Gettin’ whupped 26-0, with half-dozen sacks to finish out the Panthers 2023, some trash-talking Jax fans might push your buttons.

Whether Mr. T has become introspective about previous meddling as adverse to Successful Football Operations, or he still wants to ‘pair’ coaches is still in question. If Detroit’s Johnson was close last year, that $15M-plus payday could be real, but who feels good about a non-expert Boss standing on their turf? Evero will probably stay on defense vs. assume HC role, but as noted before, Sportwriter Guy me being wrong about every turn for three years, we’ll see.

Last games matter because its what everyone gets plenty of time to remember, players and fans, and coaches. People still say, ‘Cam didn’t reach for that ball!’ in the 2016 Super Bowl. In a 2-14, slow train wreck season, with busted expectations aplenty, players still want opportunities to do better. If your contract is up, can anything done *today* keep me in memory of those who might still have opinions about my playing anywhere again? Do Zack Wilson or Ken Pickett wish certain things hadn’t been said or confirmed about playing time?

Ask Russell Wilson how it feels to get benched for his last games in Denver, so he doesn’t get dinged! and Broncos wouldn’t be allowed to cut him to save a $54M contract year in the spring. Will Brian Burns *still*put himself on the line one more game without a new contract? Will Panthers defense want to mess with Mayfield getting a rich contract in Tampa? Could be a pride thing both ways.

Ask a long haul COVID sufferer about an old axiom about what fails to kill us only makes one stronger, 2-14 losing is bad losing. Steve Wilks got major credit for 2022 team‘s intestinal fortitude, amping fan interest, an effective, run-oriented offensive line, and team cohesion. Wilks was stiffed by Tepper, another choice is necessary, so WhoDat? in 2024.
–1/2/24 Glenn S. And Everybody wants who? and how much? so that’s where the betting sites are going overtime.

How many Oles! does Fitterer have?

Having admitted that Sportswriter Me left the sackcloth wearing and moaning to others most of this season, the question in bullfights and management moves is slipping the sword behind the animals strong neck to end things, hopefully with the elan-deadly seriousness of a matador. We’re talking about #GM Scott Fitterer now, because the talent level, albeit with a surprise or two, isn’t comforting to many. How many Oles! might be fulfilled by someone besides ‘the guy who wants to be in on everything,’ will be part of 2024 considerations.

I only caught pieces of the Jaguars game, was thrilled that the Kung Pao sauce I tried with chicken/broccoli stir-fry, and a bold California red from my arrived-for-New Years shipment from Nat Geo wines, was so tasty as a working lunch. Just my job to see the slog before the blog. No pressure to produce in the immediacy of a blitz like Bryce sees, a late, ugly crumbling by the Panthers just a feeling to be noted.

The good game against Green Bay, that last-gasp 33-30 loss, might have meant something…but no, goose egg.

I could afford to be civilized – a good game on another channel wouldn’t be a problem. Still had wine and good kung pao, no throwing laptops required. Brother and I later opined about relative calm of Mr. Richardson’s generous spirit over 25 years of Panther ownership and community, compared to the number of flawed, expensive relationships since Tepper. It still sucks he got run out, Daniel Snyder lasted 20 years.

Are we super aware #MrTeppers$$ supercedes all else over six years of ownership? Nope, just regular aware, and aware of his $875M Rock Hill facility deal blowing up too. I’m actually wondering who’d take the job here (Just please, not Belichick!)

Loserville? Check the numbers

For those who desire major league baseball here, an established and beloved team like the Hornets – rescued to some degree by Carolina hero Michael Jordan (who got paid off LARGE, and given an attaboy!) for trying so long with this franchise – the Hornets seem financially incapable of fielding a quality team. That said, there’s no real option for a bigger baseball stadium , and the $$$ for a lineup to fill a 45,000 seater with a *competitive* team would require *real* deep owner pockets for half of 162 game season is a fantasy. What new management can do about fanning interest for Hornets is also in question.

For seven years and 364 games, the Hornets led the NBA in attendance 7x, essentially sold out (capacity 23,819). Charlotte lost its team because Mecklenburg County taxpayers said NO! to a new arena for owner George Shinn. In 2022-23, their regular season average was 17,123 per game, (89.7% of 19,077). Now, LeBron sells out.

The sellers-scalpers don’t come down on prices for Steelers, Cowboys, Giants, Packers games at BOA. but even with a cheap flight and two overnights in Charlotte, the economics of tickets here aren’t a problem for those fans who can’t get tickets back home. Fans leaving at halftime because they have a 4:00 BBQ, *that’s* a problem.

Panthers (2-14) Still tough to believe Tepper yanked plug on Reich mid-season. Was there consensus on 5Ws of coaching hires, or BRYCE?
Hornets (7-23, 13th (of 15 in East) Scoring 110.6 ppg, allowing 121.4 ppg. This hasn’t been your Dad’s Hornets for a long time.
Knights Baseball (International League, 18-56 in 2023, 29.5 games out)
Checkers Hockey https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlotte_Checkers (16W-11L-3T, 6th in Atlantic Div. AHL – Hershey leads with 54 pts),
Charlotte FC (10W- 13Draw-11L) in 2023, 13-3-18, 42 pts. in 2022 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlotte_FC. (Hiring 3rd coach, same as Tepper with Panthers last 3 years)

Give the Queens University Royals Mens team some slack for 6-9 record in second season of Division I basketball, but 0-8 on the road. Games on 6th, 10th, 12th.

#leadership thought, Business, Sports

Poof! Sportswriter expertise isn’t a sham, just MrTeppers$ has blown up predictions for years

December 19, 2023March 5, 2024by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment

Fannies definitely weren’t this plentiful for 9-7 win vs. ATL Falcons. Terrible weather, but Young completes a 17 play, *92 yard* drive, taking last 7:35 of 4th quarter, a max-gut check performance ending with Pinero’s winning boot.

Hunger Games attitudes about coaching fiefdoms? I’ll leave that for another day. Whether GM Scott Fitterer is going to be gone with a front office re-org isn’t known on my paycheck level, but dammit! the offensive line wasn’t supposed to be talked so negatively about six months ago. 8 right guards and 7 LGs later, yeah, its still going to be talked about.

A ‘walk-on-by’ non-destination for Head Coaches according to SI’s Peter King? Just PLEASE don’t let him pick Belichick)

I take the blame for accepting a LOT after McCaffrey escaped without squawking, and I’m much less certain about it being *unanimous* with the Brain Trust about Young as the Must Have QB (CMC and an MVP, I see it happening).

Also, I was positive 2022 #3 pick Matt Corral would get benefit of that good coaching coming in for Bryce. Good reputations, but who got extra coaching I approved of Tepper spending on?
–Glenn Shorkey – I have proof of lauding middling picks as small genius Fitterer, a cool #3, but given away in ’23 after broken ankle as rookie.

Mayfield-Rhule was worst prediction of 2022, but…

Last year I stated ‘Rhule probably needs to win nine to keep job,’ and he was bounced early in Year Three, a waaaay bad prediction. Then, can anyone forget how interim coach Steve Wilks and a run-oriented offense, with D’Onta Foreman and minimal quarterback output, won six of ten after they started running ball control to the max?

Except for DJ Moore’s helmet violation costing the Atlanta game, and a Tampa Bay loss in Brady’s semi-last hurrah, 4 TD day, Panthers could have taken the division. It was an outstanding coaching job, by a LOCAL HERO, a reboot on healing a losing culture and fanbase, mucho attaboys! across the league, and a can’t lose Head Coach choice.

That kind of thinking and $10.50 (plus tax, tip?) will get you a premium 22 oz. draft in Charlotte. Nothing like, y’know, Respect though.

Stiffing Wilks became a sack-fumble by #MrTeppers$$, hero winds up in San Francisco with MVP candidate C-MC, two guys waiting for a ring.

‘Yeah, I guess I must suck, I was only guy not to score.’ – McCaffrey, after *not* scoring a TD in 18th straight game for record.

(He’s still getting married to Former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo in the off-season.)

Absolute Biggest Miss 2023, Sorry to Mislead You

Working Their Process Delivered Right Guy for Panthers – Expectations Start Early for #1

Draft-wise, everything was predicated on top pick, and when Young stopped doing visits, with lot of talk about how impressive he was, sure seemed obvious about done deal on franchise quarterback. Until then, I had said CJ Stroud, like everyone else would, now.

Two specific expectations came through quickly at beginning of 2023 season. Offensive line was *covered* acccording to me, Panthers even signed extra bodies, had fixed long time ballet (jumping people around) they’ve used for injuries in past. OMG! I said “It’s talked about (as a problem) until its not, and now its not (a problem).” Could I *BE* any further from the truth (say like Chandler in tribute)?

Yes, throw $25 million free agent Sanders in as lot less satisfying run production by proposed tandem (Hubbard, 741 yards, 4 TDs season, a yay! for rainy second victory), and documented leaky pass protection into mix, what happened to that hard core, productive O-line?

People point out Young’s sack total weekly (7 against Dallas, 51 this season, Sam Howell/Commanders is most sacked, 59 times), that he barely gets second step from center before wearing other teams jersey on his back. How many Panther fans agreed that ‘All we need is someone who can throw the ball’?

Oh hey, its not the weak offense, but Burns STILL doesn’t have his contract either. Trades offers were ignored, will he decide for himself?

“Panthers don’t have anyone that can hurt you long.”

Easy to nod agreement to Comment #2, every other commentator and myself has noted, “Panthers don’t have anyone that can hurt you long.” 100% bingo! dead as a doornail fact. And if your secondary can handle anyone as a receiver, and Panther tight ends are invisible but not in a Greg Olsen-ninja way, loading the box and blitzing have been useful against rookie QBs forever.

Chark and Mingo have been injury scratches often, both were afterthoughts, like bandaids as useful when needed before this Sunday. You *want* your valuable new guy surrounded by capable support, but until Right Now, its been more like Notre Dame QB Rich Clausen’s rookie year here in the meat-grinder, never given a TE to dump passes to and being blitzed mercilessly.

Young found Chark and Mingo during final drive, elevating players who had low bars to meet, this might later be called a turning point for him.

While Cam arrived along with two All-Pros in Jeremy Shockey (former) and Greg Olsen (about to go Legend) from Chicago, the Panthers haven’t gotten production from TE position since (Ian Thomas, Tommy Tremble and Giovanni Ricci combined for 471 yards on 48 catches), free agent Hayden Hurst 18/184 yds, 1 TD, concussion), Tremble, and if I’m surprised Ian Thomas is still around as a pass catcher (since 2018), I’d concur he’s one of early cuts expected from roster after season ends.

We’ll see how potential people coming IN – both on the field talent and where the front office bears changes – stacks up with Panther needs, what those soon departing didn’t provide. Bottom line, Charlotte may not be as attractive a free agent destination as before. It seems like Fitterer has gotten whatever was tasked, including ‘the talented’ Darnold and ‘also under-loved’ Baker at a bargain price before. The All Defensive Draft (2020) including Jeremy Chinn is only shining moment for Panthers, and three years of stud-dom later, I question why there’s not a spot for Chinn?

Mea cupa, about #MrTeppers$$

I didn’t write a lick about the Panthers most of year, not much of a homer-rah rah! guy, and little to add to the recent kicking that seems focused on #MrTeppers$$ and meddling. Yes, it’s a long-time axiom about $$$, it doesn’t equal brains nor guarantee Success.

‘A walk-on-by, non-destination for potential Head Coaches’ one sports guru says, requiring major cultural change capability (and please don’t let it be Belichick). Tepper has paid out a lot of good money while gaining some warts as an owner. He kind of owns the situation though.

Arriving in Charlotte at same time as Panthers, 1995, it was a revelation and on-going fact I relate, that until they whipped Dallas on Thanksgiving to go 10-0 that Super Bowl year (2015-16), Charlotte fans didn’t truly BELIEVE the Panthers success was for real. The collective ‘We’ thought being NC nice to Darnold might overcome those NY scars, getting another under-loved QB who also under-performed as a thrower, with no shiny, fast, super-good CMC to hand off to, ‘We’ haven’t liked things any better than Tepper.

That same collective was stunned big time when Wilkes wasn’t rewarded with a contract for that 7-10 finish off Rhule’s bomb of a start in 2022. Going from that splashy 6 year, $62 million or whatever bidding war with the Giants for Rhule, to a Hunger Games fiefdoms and SCHOLARLY approach with Reich and a highly paid patchwork of coaching philosophies? Geez, and I thought that was a GREAT use of his cash?!

Panthers coaching upgrades, Goal of #1 QB (CJ Stroud) makes sense, Tepper-organization $$$ speaks to cap, results

Panthers last drive Sunday, THAT is going to stick in the minds of many though. Taking whole last 7:35, QB goes 5-5 in wind and rain, tippy-toe catches, and Chuba Hubbard! It was flag-planting time, and for all the attention given to fannies who braved the elements, yeah, I admit not being up for the nasty. I sat in some inch-deep gushing downpours on aluminum bench seats in Tampa, aware of ‘The Lightning Capital of the World’ fact all around, watching soccer games. Best of wishes, good for you all doing the deed.

The day BEFORE that finale for Reich, I stated definitively Tepper would NOT admit such a massive and expensive failure, again, at 1-10. Guess he forgot ‘We have full confidence…’ press conferences come first.

Sorry I couldn’t warn you sooner, Charlote, I drank the KoolAid. Quite a few teams will have top spots open in Coaches and Front Office Land, with names to ponder here or there. Specifically HERE though, will require someone who accepts the large on field challenge AND has ability to build a fence of mature outlook about their Football Smarts vs. Empire Operations Re: MrTeppers$. Four years for $50M *might* get some interest, probaly six would be ‘penalty stroke economics.’

FYI, nobody is going to let go of that $850 million fiasco in Rock Hill in the near future either. Tepper is a well-tarnished brand going into 2024.

Sports betting propositions will soon become part of my blogging expertise on MrTeppers$, Panthers, Rock Hill, microeconomy. My unofficial look at Head Coach candidates – and as of early January, a new GM in Charlotte.

I’d bet a chunk of change Mr. Wilks won’t be fielding any calls from Charlotte, Tomlin wouldn’t mesh well with a handsy, I’m-The-Decider owner, nor can I imagine how rebuilding here would be to his liking. If its just about MrTeppers$, and Fitterer gone as GM being a losing parlay, getting the guy from Detroit with OC Johnson as HC, they’ve already have success together, how high is up for Detroit guy is question. It’s not Question #2, its Fact #2, less people are going to give Tepper the benefit of personal, organizational doubts in 2024.

As of early March, speculation about tag and trade for Brian Burns is abundant, and THIS is when that extra $45M or so to distribute should show up, DO SO, DAN!

Business, Sports

Working Their Process Delivered Right Guy for Panthers – Expectations Start Early for #1

May 10, 2023March 18, 2024by gshorkeyblt21 Comment

Charlotte didn’t believe 2015 Panthers could actually make Super Bowl until they whipped Dallas on Thanksgiving to go 10-0 is my standard. Belief in Young will take at least 4-5 Ws.

Beat writers may want to straddle just how well so many expect Bryce Young to play, and gushing like a homer all day-every day isn’t my style. OTAs start shortly in the still sweaty cauldron that is Spartanburg, but even if there are question marks, its the NFC South.

When 2010 draft brought Cam Newton here, I let alllll the stuff about his Dad offering Cam to high bidder go, he was ours – just root for Success. Drew Brees was a 5’10” over-achiever you could appreciate, but other than size, what’s not to like about Bryce?
— Me, and 5 million other guys who made him +1250 DraftKing favorite.
‘Everyone on the Brain Trust agreed,’ huh?

*Want to fully experience the Panthers at work? Get to Spartanburg early, shade is at a premium.*

Consider reasons to be jazzed up

Even if you felt Steve Wilks deserved to get the Head Coach role, Frank Reich brought the best kind of people with him, including Duce Staley, who he teamed with offensively during Eagles 2017 Super Bowl season.
Christian McCaffrey, that 1000-1000 young man some thought broke too easy, was gone mid-season and almost won a Super Bowl already, but the kid from ‘Bama has that Heisman and leadership props himself. Okay, he didn’t save a guys life (yet) or get engaged to Miss Universe like McCaffrey, but he ain’t just ANY rookie.
Let’s admit that #MrTeppers$ will make a difference, with quality, certifiably good coordinators and assistants to coach up Panthers everywhere.
When the organizations biggest Gotta Fix has been a lackluster offense requiring specific, productive leadership at the helm, should even casual fans recognize they’ve gotten better?
The practice facility and stadium situations are still out there, but you haven’t heard the words, ‘up against the cap’ in a long time. #GM Scott Fitterer gets credit for putting deals together, VP of Football Administration Samir Suleiman is the ‘cap guy’. Most people thought Shaq Thompson, after his best year (135 tackles, 8 for loss) was a goner with a $24.46MM cap hit, but Panthers managing to keep him on a reworked two year deal is good for everyone.
With a proven offensive line, bringing in Miles Sanders stats to Charlotte https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4045163/miles-sanders and his history with Coach Staley in Philadelphia, on a 4 year/$25.4M contract ($5.9MM signing bonus, $13M guaranteed, according to sportrac.com), and an opportunity for frequent carries by hard-running Chuba Hubbard (95 rush/466 yrds./2 TD, 171 yds. receiving), the ground game is solid.
Hayden Hurst (TE, 3 yr./$21.75M, $6.17M signing bonus, $13M guaranteed) fixes another significant hole in the Panther offense, one that’s existed since Greg Olsen left for the Seahawks and then announcers booth.
When Cam Newton came to town, the Panthers invested in two All Pro TEs, Jeremy Shockey (past) and Greg Olsen (legendary) to give Newton a check down receiver. Hurst brings credibility to the position earned as a key target for Joe Burrow during two AFC championship runs by Bengals. If 52 receptions for 414 yards and two touchdowns isn’t world-beating, it beats what’s been the norm.
Panthers wouldn’t listen to anyone about trading Brian Burns, there’s another run stuffing big-body free agent to put with Mr. Brown on the line, and Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero is going to make S Jeremy Chinn an All Pro, someone other teams will have to account for.

‘We got Joe’ – Guys you don’t bet against

There’s a huge influx of young guns in the NFL, with Mahomes the current lightening rod for a force you don’t want to bet against. The Buffalo Bills will never forget how a few seconds makes all the difference with a QB you WOULD want to bet against, like Herbert, Jones of NY, and Josh.

The word on Young is a WISE HEAD with props comparing him with Peyton Manning for knowing what to do in specific situation. Caveats on his size at this point, fingers crossed about O-line.
— #gshorkonsharonroadseam 5/8/23 I admit hating Manning’s constant ‘OMAHA’ checking, but he KNEW.

Joe Burrow at LSU was/is All That, and got Joe Brady, his OC at LSU , the Broyles award anda good job in NFL with Rhule’s Panthers, but they obviously out-personneled everyone with pass catchers. Joe kept his part going with Bengals, Brady’s system didn’t impress at pro level.

Aaron Rodgers, iffy a character as he sometimes seems, *still* isn’t someone you blow off until final whistle. Will NY get the full benefit of his expertise, if he can’t be bothered with some good will at OTAs? Greatest fear about Rodgers is he gets injured and its back to Zack.

It’s the NFC South folks

Is Young worth three games? because 10-7 would win the division most years. Tampa took it with 8-9 record last year, a year after Brady led them to a 13-4 record, and everyone else tied at 7-10.

ATL has two names for QB room – Logan Woodside and Desmond Ridder- and maybe Taylor Heineke (2 yrs./$20MM?); Tampa has maybe Jacoby Brissett, who was steady with Browns, and Saints Derek Carr (4 yrs./$150M) rode the wave of QB uncertainty best by signing in early March.

Despite 1-6 start in 2022, Panthers were a helmet-off penalty on Moore causing a missed PAT, and a lousy quarter defending Mike Evans (10 catches/207 yds./3TDs) as Brady went 34-45/432 yds/3 TDs to officially eliminate the Panthers. Tom is officially (at this time) still retired, so nobody in division has a better documented QB than Panthers, period.

Business, Sports

Panthers Brain Trust ups its game during drive to top pick Young

May 5, 2023November 25, 2023by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment

What’s in the cards for #Carolina Panthers and 2023 draft group, led by #1 pick Bryce Young? Predictions may be all over, but Panthers were a helmet penalty extra point and a lousy 24 point quarter by Brady and the Bucs from playoffs last year, off a 1-6 start.

Nobody is dissing the #Carolina Panthers front office over their draft process, even if ‘Panthers organization and brains’ sometimes slipped into air quotes in recent past, especially with QBs. GM #Scott Fitterer’s reputation for ‘in on every deal’ is respected, which started long before pulling off the draft picks and DJ Moore price tag for #1 pick, #Bryce Young.

Maybe its the 4th time Fitterer’s brought best available leader into quarterback mix, but all the exploring and validating was about #best practices, not just a jumbled Rhule this time around.
5/2/23 #gshorkonsharonroadseam

Panther icon #Steve Smith seems solid on their #2 pick https://www.panthers.com/team/players-roster/jonathan-mingo/ as “a receiver who runs like a running back, around or through you” after the catch. Lots of experts said it was easier to get a top flight receiver than a franchise quarterback. Is immediately replacing Moore’s 1,000 yards production – and maybe scoring more touchdowns – a legitimate gauging of talent?

The Panthers draft was rated everywhere from A, A- to C+, depending on how heavily you weighed the obvious picking of Young as a future star, a #2 (Mingo) earlier than many thought necessary, and a LB/freak athlete from Oregon because Ejiro Evior wanted him, has been a Fitterer specialty. https://www.panthers.com/team/coaches-roster/ejiro-evero It seems like needs were met, #collaboration and ORGANIZATION sure strikes a different tone in Charlotte.

Word from San Francisco, which thinks Sam Darnold is the most talented thrower they’ve ever had – good luck with that. Talent wasn’t really the question…

They’ve signed 13 undrafted free agents, and still have $22.6MM of cap space for when negotiations with #Brian Burns extension starts. He’ll want to continue leading this defense, #2 on yardage/23rd in getting scored on, but getting paid still counts.
–5/1/23

Nobody in the organization has mentioned trading Matt Corral, last years second #3 pick, after a broken ankle in pre-season. He’s a freebie pickup of talent, and with Reich and an excellent coaching staff, could become a significant asset. Andy Dalton is current #2.

Alabama QBs, The Ghosts of Weinke, Newton

Starting with Newton as an ultimate extension of physical superiority in speed-strength in the RPO (run-pass-option offense) while winning 2010 national championship and Heisman at Auburn, Bryce Young is now the third Heisman QB in Panther history – Chris Weinke of Florida State, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Weinke being the first with that designation.

Weinke, was Panthers #1 in 2000, and he was 28 years old at FSU because he’d played baseball in Toronto’s minor league system. He wound up activating a lot of performance (yardage, TDs, starts) standards on a 1-15 team, where he eventually became a $5MM backup – when that wasn’t the norm. They handed the keys to Rodney Peete, and Weinke was out in 2006.

Cam Newton still casts a shadow around Charlotte as a franchise star, his contributions noteworthy, but Young won’t be getting coaching from Newton even if both like the idea. We’ll see if Eagles star Jalen Hurts is an outlier of strength-quality production among ex-Tide QBs with his historic (for like two hours) financial extension off last years Super Bowl run.

Mac Jones with the Patriots didn’t over-impress https://nypost.com/2023/04/29/patriots-bill-belichick-finally-addresses-mac-jones-trade-reports/ in Year 2, and the potential for Tua T. in Miami is somewhere between getting clonged badly several times in 2022, and getting to the playoffs again in a division that now includes Aaron Rodgers twice a year.

Oh yeah, Mayfield was a Heisman guy in Charlotte last year. 1-5 record, some mop up duty in another. 6 TD, 6 INT. Oy!

When all four decision makers were 100% in their praise – and Young canceled any remaining Top 30 visits – the announcement by the Commissioner was a 3 weeks unofficial Done Deal for me.

Pre-draft, Young was -1250 or so on DraftKings. Just sayin’.

Then there’s an Outstanding Offensive Line

A definitive asset that awaits Bryce Young is a very together and DEEP #Offensive line. The Panthers became a highly productive run team https://www.catscratchreader.com/2023/1/16/23556866/final-2022-ratings-for-the-panthers-offense-per-pro-football-focus with minimal expectations of production from Mayfield et al.

Panthers didn’t ‘just’ need a Good quarterback, more an Alpha, franchise-level leader. Can Panther fans expect the level of coaching in 2023 will make THAT much of a difference? The OC-DC and assistants assembled are well-documented, top of their game types, and Yes, that’s the Mission Statement clarity the top brass has operated under.

In #’Good to Great,’ a business management must-read, Jim C. Collins felt getting the right people on the bus AND in the right places was a primary difference maker. NOBODY doubts that steadiness of O-line and two-headed running attack will benefit Young. The Panthers organization is 100% agreed on directionality, every supporting factor (ie. Coaching staff) is planned around, and Bryce Young is considered a very wise head.

In Charlotte, adding G Chandler Zavala (NCState), a linemate of #Ikem Ekwonu at State, local hero (Providence Day) and the Panther’s much appreciated rookie OLT last season, adds some explosive power – his rep is a mauler on runs. Young won’t lack for opportunities to show off a little magic in the new, shinier version of the #Carolina Panthers.

#leadership thought, Business, Community based pr

Easter sales moved my microeconomy, Queens Cup social is coming, #1 pick a big deal for Panthers

April 15, 2023March 7, 2024by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment

Easter, 1995 was when I decided to move from upstate NY to Charlotte, NC. My folks came up from Tampa for their 40th anniversary, youngest bro David and nephew Curtiss and I drove down. It was Chamber of Commerce weather, we golfed on the 9-hole course where The Cypress senior community is now. On Memorial Day I made the jump, never had any regrets.

‘Lifestyle’ is much different since landing at #gshorkonsharonroadseam in late-2021. A lot of Americans were on the move, pandemic constraints changed renting. My retail efforts are in a micro-economy where selling suits is my specific window-POV to report on. 2023 was my best earning year in the last five. I was under-withheld, so paying Fed taxes at about 8%.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to be of service to my 89-year old mother, whom I brought two Lindor chocolate eggs and purple flowers to after church. Sending pictures to my bros is very affirming. Starting my 29th year in Charlotte, New Normal for lifestyle is steady, and creatively, #BoomerwithAttitude is still legitimate.

*#gshorkonsharonroadseam is location, and suit-selling as micro-economy.*

Saturday and Monday were both above average, a target-rich environment with another three-Bugachi shirt buyer ($160-180), a product I personally pump. Very few people are blinking about $650-$850 sports coats.
— Me, on Monday, after I dressed down to jeans, black sweater, sneakers vs. usual suit-tie, and did $3,400 sales in 6.5 hrs. Three guys bought the first jacket they tried on.

Need something for the Queens Cup Steeplechases?

There’s a mauve, hyper-light Peter Millar displayed in the department, and my current favorite intro for anyone around it is asking about the QCS in two weeks (April 29th). Several people have commented they’ve heard about the event, but never been. I give a quick social rundown, including my own wearing of a blue-on-blue Bugachi shirt, yellow Garcia tie, and antique Ferrari hat last year, skipping the seersucker jacket because it was extra hot.

One of the axioms of sales is people buy from those they like and trust. I’m certainly interested in helping others, *everybody* likes getting needs taken care of, and in my methodology, customer service starts with good information. Take a couple through how the slim cuts (Boss, Baker, Victor) fit differently under arms, presenting that good-looking, pebbly feel blue blazer in 38-short (sleeve length), while suggesting they consider a terrific social event costs ZERO. I think of it as ‘best practices.’

What Woman isn’t ready to help her guy find something gooood to wear beside her for a day of horse watching, drinks, big hats and short skirts, and this person says he’s been five times and NEVER had a bad day? Socially, I always look forward to it, and I’m sincerely willing to tell others about the ambiance and the Hotwalkers Ball while he’s trying on the small, black/blue window pane Ted Baker ($695) or Jack Victor. Win-win. Tickets https://www.queenscup.org/tickets/ .

*Expecting to continue my streak of fun outings at #QueensCupSteeplechases on 29th.*

Putting a jacket on the guy, versus letting them wrestle into it after whirling overhead, is always a positive. *Every*single*female* likes it when I say, “Guys often buy a suit and immediately want a white shirt, time out on that.”

Even if people are jogging through, a lookee-see, pointing out we have plenty of Peter Millar sports-shirts is a no-brainer. Everybody likes Millar, and digging a little for what someone might want is the Q&A that makes me a good consultant.
–Glenn S., 4/14/23

Panthers, still on our minds

The #Carolina Panthers will have the #1 pick in upcoming draft, and gaining the franchise level quarterback they’ve desperately needed is a soon to be fact. All the expected candidates will check 98% of the boxes, some pundits will note that (except for Jaylan Hurts), neither Ohio St. or Alabama has produced a great pro QB recently.

The lowdown on #Carolina Panther fandom:

That Super Bowl year so many remember whenever discussion of Cam’s current situation comes up, until the Panthers thumped Dallas 31-14 on Thanksgiving Day to stand at 10-0, many residents of the Buckle on the Bible Belt weren’t believing their team could make the Super Bowl.

That said, getting a #1 pick again, with a semi-clear path out of football purgatory, people have expectations. Belief will take a lot longer.

Few expected Rhule’s rudderless teams to be better than average, but that’s Past now, right? Panthers front office has earned nothing but league-wide respect, ending the dumpster fire of last couple years. Panther Pride? You betcha. All Tepper flaws forgiven? Hey, its Easter, lets go with the spirit of the season.

Business, Sports

Panthers coaching upgrades, Goal of #1 QB (CJ Stroud) makes sense, Tepper-organization $$$ speaks to cap, results

March 30, 2023November 30, 2023by gshorkeyblt21 Comment

*Between the price of beer and getting the #1 pick in 2023 draft, trust the Panthers know what they want. Trust the fans always want the beers.*

The absolute best thing Owner David Tepper has done PR-wise was spread his cash supply on documented OC and DC coordinators and assistants for a team that just might be a well-trained stud quarterback shy of being MUCH better. FYI – The current number on Ohio State’s CJ Stroud as Panthers #1 pick is -160 by CBS Sports (betting $160 to win $100 base bet-proposition)

GM Scott Fitterer, Tepper, Reich, and first year OC Thomas Brown will be 100% on same page with this choice. All the boxes will be checked. Yes, its still a month to draft day.

This isn’t Kevin Costner as Sonny Weaver, Jr. in ‘Draft Day.’ Some will call it a 4th iteration of Fitterer bringing in previous, if flawed, leaders. Keeping Matt Corral, post-broken ankle v. trade, means he’ll be a more valuable backup from same great coaching. Everyone’s glad Shaq worked out staying.
— 3/30/23, As Stephen Covey often suggests, the Panthers #1 pick isn’t anything fans should worry about. #Gshorkonsharonroadseam

2nd Time with Franchise QB: More than Move the Chains

Frank Reich as Head Coach is now operationally fine, and Steve Wilks found a pretty solid place to showcase his chops in Phoenix.

Yes, 7-10 record off 1-6 Rhule-Mayfield start was a resurrection, for organization and fans. No hard feelings there (maybe). It was difficult seeing McCaffrey become an even brighter (Super Bowl!) star with 49ers, DJM was all class, and he felt the Love here. Both gone in one season – If you want to declare ‘We were blessed with their efforts,’ feel free Charlotte.

Former Panther QB Jimmy Clausen saw unrelenting blitzes without a checkdown receiver the year before Cam’s rookie year, but All Pros Jeremy Shockey (past) and Greg Olsen (future) came to Charlotte with Cam. Both had terrific blocking skills, but Olsen became a lethal ninja-type TE, reappearing eight yards downfield for first downs that moved the chains.

Plus players, plenty of cap space

His three consecutive 1,000 seasons hasn’t been replaced, but starting with Adam Thielen (from Minn., 3 yr/$25MM), RB Miles Sanders (from Philly, 4 yr/$25MM), WR DJ Chark (16.7 avg yd/catch, one yr. $5MM ‘make good’ contract), and resigning center Bradley Bozeman (3 yr./$18MM), puts good personnel all around that franchise piece. You haven’t heard ‘up against the cap’ in a while.

Expectations for rookie stats (4,000+ yds) will be similar level to Newton’s. The 2023 Panthers won’t be in Game Management 101 mode.

Newton’s physical skills in RPO (run pass option) of 2010 offense were obvious, but even during his MVP season, his throwing stats were in line with career numbers, like three points higher. He never threw anything besides a bullet, never ‘threw a receiver open’ or aired it out for a fast guy to run under. On a certain level, it’ll be a 2nd Coming the Panther faithful can-will embrace.

O-line as Strength

The offensive line is built righteous, all paid for too. The mantra about offensive line play is always a problem, until it isn’t – well, now it isn’t. Panthers have notably signed several additional lineman, after years of what seemed an organizational flaw, with line repositioning necessary whenever two injuries occurred. Ekwonu and Moton are All-Pro material. https://www.panthers.com/video/ikem-ekwonu-earns-spot-in-pff-90-club-after-performance-vs-49ers.

The running backs (Chubba Hubbard, 1,078 yards/7 TDs in two years; high achiever Sanders) will benefit from Bozeman’s return and OC Thomas’ usual two-man gang approach to the position. Jamaal Williams had 17 TDs for Detroit last year under Staley, and they averaged132.2 yards/game. The Panthers averaged 130. Expect some saltiness in their approach to run blocking, and giving Stroud (-160 is stiff, but a winner) the sort of steadiness barely imaginable this time last year.

Accumulating coaches positive: Asst. Head Coach/Running backs, Duce Staley https://www.panthers.com/team/coaches-roster/duce-staley

Staley and Reich were part of the offensive coaching that made Philadelphia Eagles 2017 Super Bowl winners, a VERY BIG factor in Reich’s selection as Head Coach. While visions of prime talent gone elsewhere (McCaffrey, Moore) will persist, Line Coach James Campen and Staley will continue upward cycle of strong O-line play, with significant statistical success.

#leadership thought, Business, Health care

#NewNormal still legit, plenty of product keeps suit-selling micro-economy positive

March 2, 2023July 20, 2023by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment

After two weeks off from COVID-positive test, I’m just thankful brothers and I visiting Mom on her birthday wasn’t affected by my last visit. Tuesday I had a regular temp of 97.4 and oxygen 99 at check-in, sinus draining manifested Wednesday. That Sat. I did nose swab, which showed positive. https://cdtalententerprises.com/2023/02/14/finally-positive-for-covid-right-after-english-gents-tux-suit-double-broke-a-long-cold-streak/

All of us noted Mom is physically less frail on her 89th, she feels solid in shoulders and upper arms. Her hair was freshly done up curly, she spoke often.

*Mom’s hair was fine for b-day, this is styling genuine Russian fur hat.*

There’s an awareness that, #BoomerwithAttitude aside, there’s going to be less of such moments in the future. Taking the Universal balance POV, my nephew Ian successfully proposed to Nicki, grand-nephew? Trace is fully three, nephew Spencer will defend his PhD thesis (and turns 30!) this spring, and so things go forward. Just sayin’…

Brother Mike and dogs is in town from FL for birthday , and attended the St. Gabriel Men’s Club meeting Fri. This week (10th) is annual Lenten Fish Fry Dinner for parish and beyond, I’m sure Mike will get some glory for his kitchen efforts in past, while enjoying the camaraderie again.

The club did it exceptionally well for thirty years straight, stopped since COVID, so 600+ this Friday would look a lot like #NewNormal. I had no insurance coverage the first year of the pandemic – I’m 4x vaxxed now, good to hug my Mom, and willing to shake hands again.

Spring has Sprung? Three weeks to desired product

A $4,290 Friday proved that our suits at Nordstrom are gaining destination shopping status. Being up 58% over last year is a fact. I worked Wed-Thurs.-Fri. (1-8:30 = 22 hrs.), and manager essentially gave me weekend off because of funeral service and ‘life celebration’ for a buddy Saturday a.m. (More on that later)

That I ‘paid for myself’ in micro-economy vs. draw with big Friday finish is how it can roll this time of year. FYI – I picked up where I left off on Monday, a broad-shouldered, shorter guy, who jammed in a Hugo Boss Blue, which keeps my streak going.

Friday wasn’t a typical three-suit day, but I did an outstanding job delivering my personal #best practices to three customers who really needed it. Saying customer count is at a premium Wed.-Friday during week is true.

Mr. Skeen – Older gentleman, hasn’t needed a suit in years, grand-daughters wedding is event. We didn’t have to discuss any of the slim cut lines, and everyone (including wife), agreed the charcoal gray with white hatching Peter Millar was a great match with his hair.

Totally painless, minimal alterations, and he appreciated that we could ship the finished suit to Cornelius home (no cost). His wife did not find the kind of dress she wanted.

The Whole Family Event

The other designers we carry (Hugo Boss, Ted Baker, Jack Victor, Peter Millar) are between $795-$995 for suits, Canali is a definite jump in price – $1,600 sports coats, $2,400 suits – so its great to hear a potential client ‘really likes the fit of Canalis’ right off the bat.

Client and wife had two youngsters in a stacked stroller, and I eventually put all of them in the largest dressing room. Wife and I were both strong on a beautiful silvery-charcoal, with a subdued blue stripe that showed when closer. The dark blue suit he checked early didn’t have a chance.
— Short-armed client needed sleeve alterations on shirts, and he asked about picking up by 1:00pm Saturday for flight to Vegas. Got it expedited. Few buyers sweat fees for bang-zoom! great service.

A Man with Yikes! Suit Needs

Sales-wise, its always been part of my methodology to impart a decent amount of information to someone quickly. First job out of college, twenty cold calls a day, I projected a fairly simple idea, why TIME, Inc. titles, especially People magazine, should be around their registers. With #suit-sizing, there’s nothing like putting a 42 Regular or 38 Short on just to learn some basics, how it hangs.

The final person Friday really needed a fully fitted suit. His neck-shoulder muscles filled an area well short of the shoulder seam, causing a handful of nothing. Eventually he fit well in a 48 Hugo Boss, which is a champion in giving shoulder-space, and its a slim cut jacket on the sides. People usually think about the pants after there’s interest in overall fit. In gentleman’s case, basic math of ‘chest size minus 6’ wouldn’t work (48-6=42″ pants).

If standard pants with suit are 42″ and guy is no more than 36″ waist, that can’t be hemmed. Next part would have been whether ‘thunder thighs’ could’ve fit in the slim cut pants, but…

At start of March, I feel fine about imparting ‘sizing’ information people can take forward in looking for suits overall. As long as we’ve got product, I expect very similar micro-economy results, now that weddings and proms are very consistently the deal.

My Contribution to a ‘Life Celebration’

*St. Gabriel’s legendary Lenten Fish Fry happens Friday, March 10th.*

(Three previous speakers bloviating overrode possibility of nice looking sandwiches/snacks at Legion Brewing, so I had a beer in the man’s honor and skedaddled. My story would have been like this, and relevant to the upcoming Fish Fry)

Men’s Club member Armen Boyajian (https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/armen-boyajian-obituary?id=38372268) worked at the Diocese of Charlotte. As noted, our Men’s Club has done fish fries a very long time. In the early days, with only two fryers vs. current four plus upgraded other cooking elements) and often longer lines, we started giving people beer in line.

We couldn’t sell it because didn’t liquor license, but people often dropped off contributions. We did it forever, donated (and up-sized) those $$$ donations for places, like a parish we had a connection with in Houston during massive flooding, but mostly its about good works in Charlotte.

So, Armen is selling fish fry tickets down at the Diocese, and tells a couple ladies, “…and you don’t have to worry about beverages, your beer and wine is free,” which caused a nearby lawyer to quickly jerk and say, “What?!”

While we’d done it openly all those years, *apparently* the Diocese owns the school and its cafeteria, and dispensing alcohol, free or not, on the premises, got the lawyers involved. No more guys filling up a couple pitchers for the workers in back (and never the Boy Scouts or workers from middle school and HS aged, doing community hours of course), everything done by licensed bartenders. BIG game changer.

I’m sure the look I would have put on my face the moment of “What?!” would have livened up that life celebration considerably. That’s also #NewNormal, we get to celebrate and grieve our loved ones again. Still can’t understand taking chances with elderly family along the way by so many. Feeling Mom’s 89-year old good shoulder under my hand, that counts for something.

Business, Thought Leadership

Being of Service: A Three-Suit Sales Day, Brunch person, COVID doctor

December 2, 2022December 8, 2022by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment

While positive comments for shepherding people (painlessly) through suit process are appreciated, as part of my job, taking pride in the process is psychic income. Yes, I get comments for suit-wearing, and picking Glenn Bossnblue as pen name is tied to feeling good about that aspect of my retail micro-economy. It looks like three-suit sales days aren’t going to be unusual. LOTS of good-looking $700+ sports coats getting attention.

My POV remains positive, with suit selling as my bellweather on results, weddings are still #1 reason for suits. After a $3,800 Wednesday, with literally off the rack $500 suit at very end of night, $4,500 Friday ended with $1,200 sale (Jack Victor black-blue sport coat, $785, Bucachi black long-sleeve, $179), multi-color mohair sweater ($239).

(It takes about $1,400/day in sales to pay for myself – hourly draw/commission. 36.5 hrs. week)

Like good defensive backs, I have a short memory of LOUSY – less than $400 sales in 8-hrs. Saturday is 99% forgotten about. A bourbon at The Palms, 25-minutes of shooting hoops in a parking lot with one light, then quality leftovers and brewskies watching the Florida-Florida St. tussle were very relax-able elements. Not New Normal, just unstressed finish watching a rivalry game (a lot like the ’80s versions).

Sunday Brunch was paid for by companion, the opportunity to tip well was earned-deserved every step along the way by Stephanie, whose attendance and intelligence as a professional waitress enhanced a brunch at https://www.opentable.com/green-valley-grill. She did great, smoothing out a less successful Saturday with a Sunday afternoon free lunch, with frequent refills on coffee to info about Spanish Eggs, apppropraite action on the delay of espresso shot on vanilla ice cream with choclate biscotti dessert. $$$ on the table for good-good-good service is the appropriate accolade.

Its not just ego, or a magic blue suit – SERVICE is a legitimate dividing line when deciding to shop at Nordstrom or elsewhere, with me or anyone else. Good sales service isn’t taking your four items of clothing ‘to open a room for you.’

Like Stephanie at brunch, finding that cool 3X Bugachi for bulky guy, or suggesting options beyond a white shirt, that’s the good service guy I tend to be, so I appreciate a similar cooperative communicator.

Being OF SERVICE

The front-line COVID doctor I’m looking forward to meeting this week, yeah, the collective WE can never do justice to what medical personnel, at all levels of service, went through during pandemic. The Novant supervisor who immediately said, “Let’s get you stuck,” while still a Category 5 NC resident – and taking a mere 26 minutes from parking to leaving experience – is a service I won’t forget.

The old axiom of semi-gratitude is that, whatever burdens you’re bearing in life, “someone else has it worse.” In this seasonal expressing of thankfulness, it would take more than my writers imagination to understand looking the beast COVID in the eye daily, and I admire those who put themselves on the line for US.

Yes, I get comments for suit-wearing, and and picking Glenn Bossnblue as new pen name is tied to feeling good about that micro-economy. A bunch of three-suit days, I’ve got a feeling thats not going to be unusual. LOTS of $700+ sports coats recently.
Myself, post-Thanksgiving, 2022. Life at this end of #gshorkonsharonroadseam feels quite stable.

Alterations are always a Service Biggie

Early Monday its a green with black Ted Baker ($845) for wedding suit for next week, and fiancee nurse is staying up after overnight shift to get this important aspect done with him. He’s a marathon runner (100 milers) guy, with bigger calves and wanting to show ankle changes – alterations guy handled tapering like expect from pros. People have no qualms about paying for results, especially expediting.

In my micro-economy, SUITS area being up 57% over last year is no surprise . While we still sell out of common sizes quickly, we have plenty of product overall.

Turned right around, 2nd guy in gray suit

Finishing a great start to finish/rung up client and turning to a highly motivated next prospect is a salesman’s sweet spot. Jonathan was willing to learn and importantly, try on, both shirts (better with 32-33 sleeve) and suits. I affirm try-er on-ers regularly.

As a salesperson and journalist-writer, doing fairly quick overviews of designers (Baker, Boss, Millar, Canali, and more recently, Jack Victor) sets the stage for ‘sizing’ customers, getting a jacket on them soon, basing estimates on myself as a 42 regular.

I’ve had lot of success with Boss, always point out how lowering the arm holes-shoulders are perfect for certain builds, with a great profile as a slim cut. Jonathan came in looking for exactly the slim fit, nice charcoal gray (Baker, $845) he’d expected, plus two much better than just white, trim fit Donahue shirts ($155). Bringing two sizes and options is a great closing situation.

“Of course, the Boss felt a little better in the shoulders, but I realllly like how the gray looks on me.”

“Shoulders on BOSS terrific, but I really like how the gray looks.” Bang zoom, that’s decision I like to hear at end. Put a hem on it, pick it up in an hour. That a THIRD guy blew through and took a Millar check sports coat ($745) and a pair of white shirts, *that* is how triples should roll.

Although there’s a consistent fear of inflation or recession, my current POV-expectation is, with plenty of product vs. last year, setting goals for better paychecks is Reality. In 2021, I was often selling from an empty cart, burning time online having suits and shirts being shipped from other stores vs. just ringing up Peter Millar shirts/sweaters I *should* have had.

We (Nordstrom) still don’t do Black Friday pricing, which could have contributed to my poor showing last Saturday. Our regulars know they won’t miss sales, but deal hunters were often disappointed. End of the pay period, you’d better believe I’m wearing my Boss Blue – aka The $$$ Suit – instead of black management feels ‘would help identify us with customers.’

Reward those who have or will serve you well. Since first sales job out of college, and Boomer with Attittude, if you wanted more money, the word has been “Its right out there, do more.” Zig Ziglar stated it undeniably: If you get other people what they want, (as a saleperson) you automatically get what you want.

*Department is up 57% vs. 2021*, butNordstrom’s doesn’t really do Black Friday pricing,. I’m within two of our nice Jack Victor sports jackets of my goal.

Business, Community based pr, Thought Leadership

Ex-Yankee, Jr. Chamber Commerce VP – Haunted Houses were greatest fun, collaboration, and skill builder

October 28, 2022January 17, 2023by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment

There’s a house in Monroe that is the epitome of Halloween greatness. Our Junior Chamber edition grew to over 150 panels, and single greatest scarer was Jason with a Chainsaw – you could hear it the whole time, you just didn’t know when it would be your turn.

Having a successful Haunted House was great for group morale throughout the run. Documenting the process (Chairman’s Planning Guides) proved early on how necessary the paperwork is in successful companies – the ability to repeat Success is in the details.

I recently took advantage of a community group’s Oyster Roast (Two tickets – $75, beverages free) return to annual lineup of events on Saturday, and a small sigh still escapes when I see particularly well-done Halloween decorated porches in my #gshorkonsharonroadseam neighborhood.

During Junior Chamber of Commerce days of long ago, our chapter (Albany, NY) produced six memorable Houses, all at different malls, with unique setups.

Improving the skills of our members, making them better workers for their companies, capable of handling different situations, was always my organizational goal as Community Development VP. Doing -thons of various kinds are common for many groups, Haunted House was our biggest fundraiser, an All Hands on Deck! collaboration for most of six weeks, involving engineering-hard core construction, planning, food supply, characters, and community-scholastic support.

Many people don’t know that the PGA tour stop long known as The Greater Greensboro Open, was originally a Jaycee project.

This was one of 23 documented projects our chapter worked on, earning three State-level awards, in my Community Development VP year. Having a successful Haunted House was great for group morale throughout the annual run, and documenting the process (Chairman’s Planning Guides) proved early on how necessary the paperwork is in successful companies – the ability to repeat Success is in the details.

Greatest Scare #1- Jason with Chainsaw

‘The kid hit every wall on the way out.‘ Even wiseguys are willing to pay a couple bucks to see how great a Haunted House is, and sometimes they try messing up a good time along the way. The walkie-talkie message “Get this kid” was unnecessary – one-on-one, I never missed a Diss-er.

Looking through the blinds into a blood-splattered shower Psycho scene, the disser was right in guessing there was someone, me, in the area behind the shower, but I knew he wouldn’t DARE open the door to find out. We had a strobe light linked to that door opening, and after waiting an extra couple seconds, kicking it open and charging out with that chainsaw going, it really didn’t matter what I said behind the hockey mask (“Not so cool NOW, are you punk?!”). He was crabbing backward until I backed up a step, then he hit every wall in second half of the House running out.

It was the topic of much discussion at pizza break, who had gotten that kid, and its always been a point of pride, keeping my Never Missed rep.

Okay, Year Two, when a saucy young girl got similar treatment, she’d just had something to say to three witches, the end of House was in sight, then I boosted myself on a railing, and was about nine feet tall, waving that chainsaw. The girl did a full 3-second movie scream and was GONE.

Group Scare, Nine Pancaked People

7 Girls, 2 high school guys were on floor, 5 characters kept them screaming. Again, Jason with Chainsaw was big factor, plenty of fog machine, mirrored back wall, and strobe were great – I was actually running in place and yelling. While that was usually enough, a bunch of Key Club-ers were also there, and every one (person in grave, Dracula, Frankenstein lurching from a wall, a zombie popping up next to the group) were joyful about having a piece of getting their friends flat on the floor. The two guys who climbed over the girls to escape, LOL.

Best practices learned, #1, 2

While a terrific success financially and creatively, Year One, everybody coming down with wicked sore throats (and still showing up) was an obvious challenge. Wiping down-disinfecting each sweaty mask at every break was the solution forever after. That we’d had *loose leaves and electrical cord* throughout our first House was stunning in retrospect. The setup-walking space was tight, if there had been an emergency, it probably would have been a disaster.

Early in Year 2, the Town of Colonie showed us zoning laws-fire ordinances still needed to be obeyed, when they tore down a nights work of covering the windows in an old Burger King location with dark paper. We wound up having to paint a lot of glass black, weekend days were still a lot lighter, though props held up well.

Amazing how younger kids wanted to come in, but were definitely scared of the monsters. We gave the little ones lollipops or small plastic spider rings to show to monsters “and they’ll be nice.” Parents loved the creativity and energy.

Great Engineering-Construction

FLYING WITCHES!! Having a couple engineers-architect types in the group is helpful in making things work. For the Witches, it was filling three-50 gal. drums with water (counter-balance) and having a supply of smaller HS girls willing to be hooked up and go about 30x a shift. The cable they were hitched to didn’t need to be a steep incline, just keep them moving, and a light flashed on them going past, with the accompanying cackle and witchlike behavior in a 10′ view.

One drawback: A couple times the required ‘catchers’ didn’t do their job, and the witches came through the black cloth at end and crashed into a barrier only 6 feet later. Trying to protect themselves, the girls often came through with knees up, a little something extra to watch out for in the relative dark.

Safety is always paramount, touching isn’t allowed. While residents of Insane Asylum could reach from behind rebar to within inches of passing viewers, nobody grabbed even a school buddy, and no-touch works both ways. Workers ‘inside’ featured rooms have to know escape routes for any emergencies.

FOOD!

Considering the amount of time and personnel necessary for construction, free food is an economic necessity. Because most Jaycees were coming from work, being able to grab some chow on breaks was necessary. McDonalds was willing to have someone pick up a bunch of burgers at specific times, pizza-donuts-cookies-soda were always around. Thankfully, mall food court merchants were always generous, Haunted House was always a traffic builder – kids bring parents with $$$.

Having people on the phones willing to ask strangers for food was a big job, like a constant three person job determining the when and how much we were able to get ahold of for a month of thirty-plus people daily.

COLLABORATION TO THE MAX

Stating that the collaboration of efforts and leadership skills – sharpened in the reality of projects and available for years thereafter – is always going to be my #1 “You should try” advice about Junior Chamber activity, thats REAL effective networking. Having that link, being part of a specific cadre of talents that brought events together for a greater good, that counted in all my professional accounts going forwards.

Often quoted in complaint, ‘Getting volunteers to move the right way is like herding cats,’ isn’t wrong.

The Haunted House construction was always a terrific challenge, with a whole trailer-load of props to utilize, and the screaming and scaring was the payoff. Knowing how great the gig was (again) versus thinking it would be economically beneficial to our chapter was #1 Attitude.

The chapter had lots of bankers (Key Bank), and was a ‘rebuild’ of what had been a 300 member (Metro size) Albany Chapter that divided into three smaller groups. Albany had some history, so being in that initial dozen or so, previous Jaycees now ‘Roosters’ (past age 39) provided direction, and we carried forward. Continuing good handoffs help the community and the helpers.

Yay! for seasonal Halloween scaring, for the houses that decorate, and may there be a Haunted House for the kids and you to enjoy in 2022.