Category: Thought Leadership

microeconomy, Political, Thought Leadership

NO KINGS! Marches a Success, Vietnam fell 50 years ago, So now what?

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on NO KINGS! Marches a Success, Vietnam fell 50 years ago, So now what?
New Zealand All Blacks classic haka is aggressive as hell as spectacle, but not a riot.

Millions of people in some 1,800 marches across America on Saturday, and dozens of countries around the world, displayed extreme negatives regarding the US Prez, whose $45MM birthday parade was a badly attended (and embarrassing) event. About 1/3 of that was budgeted for repairing those DC roads the tanks will tear up during a military hoo-hah usually done for dictators.

I told a number of people at Charlotte event that I never did anything related to Vietnam protests, which were often MASSIVE, vocal, strongly purposeful events long before today’s social media could get the necessary word out by posting on multiple sites. A 50th class reunion in September is a huge counterpoint to knowing ‘Nam went down in a matter of weeks the Spring of my senior year.

Having stated often how glad I was to not be involved in that meat-grinder, its a 100% Truth that, aside from our incredibly bloody Civil War, NOW is the most divisive time in our nation’s history.

I’m not the only person who cheered about trump’s VERY badly attended birthday-celebration for ‘US Army’s 250th Anniversary’ Saturday. If those people who support djt’s chaotic second term at the helm thought he owned the libs, the Reality of ‘Eat (excrement), 50 billion flies can’t be wrong’ was evident on a world-wide stage. GShork 6/16/25

Will another 1000-1200 words make a difference?

Attempting to write something strong-meaningful about overall picture probably won’t fly as high and well as Thomas Paine’s ‘Common Sense’ of 1776 in swaying public opinion, and there are plenty of columnists and pundits who will have opinions and better platforms to present their views to a larger audience. I’ll use bullets (no ballot necessary, the people have definitely spoken) for a Monday review on non-attendance in DC.

There will probably be a number of fellow grads I won’t be chatting with in September, but since we haven’t communicated much since HS, its not going to affect my sleeping habits. Those who identified me as ‘one of those journalism guys’ at previous reunions, the only piece I regret from back then was dissing the majorettes, because KK turned into a dynamic Woman vs. just *really* cute girl junior year. NOW is a lot more serious deal, definitely no regrets on stating my POV.

  • Kent State (5/4/1970, 4 dead, 9 wounded) was my first clue our government could actually do something like shoot unarmed protestors. Most consider it a tragic situation, jittery young Ohio National Guard troops opening fire, but there’s NO mistaking how serious the current administration is about trying to control what We the People are allowed to say or do, at least according to trump & his Minions. I’m not the only #BoomerwithAttitude who recalls Chicago cops working their fucking night-sticks, but TV made us aware of black people being beaten and more long before that. But I didn’t see that so much in Schenectady, NY.
  • Bobby Kennedy invoking his own brothers assassination FOR THE ONLY TIME – and Indianapolis was the only city that wasn’t ablaze in America the night of ML King’s death. THAT’S deserved rioting, not just protest.
  • The direct repudiation/regular bitch-slapping (apologies for a non-gender specific but accurate phrase) of long time American belief in principles of posse comitatus https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/posse-comitatus-act-explained (bans using military for police actions) and habeas corpus -a judicial order forcing law enforcement authorities to produce a prisoner they are holding, and to justify a prisoner’s continued confinement – is beyond just disturbing. Lady Liberty lies propped against an LA curb, nicked repeatedly by rubber bullets and probably tear-gassed, just five months into this administration.
  • ‘We’ DID fix a quantity of negatives about environment and civil-womens-gay rights back then, at least paid enough attention to it to recognize what losing those advances would mean today. Could changes have happened any more organically, without LOTS of effort on legal front by many, many people over many, many years? Save the freaking eagles worked. Gal Gadot (as Wonder Woman) beating Ares, and ending WWI by breaking his hold on the minds of German military isn’t on the menu with trumpies.
  • RULE OF LAW – Can America trust the judiciary to hold strong against a relentless tide of malfeasance while providing full immunity? A common sign Saturday was ‘No faux (fake) king way.’ Un-Constitutional doesn’t seem to carry as much weight, if ANY, with ‘those people.’ Its in black and white about ‘born here = Citizen,’ and right to be told charges and allowed to defend oneself. People – including those who voted for trump and/or participated in infamous, watched by the WORLD ‘Capital tour group’ in January, 2021 – only now seem to recognize what they’re losing after an espouso is picked up going to work, or their job is axed by DOGE.
  • Is a person who shoots a Minnesota State senator and wife, murdering two and seriously wounding two others, a throwback to assassinations of political figures like Malcolm X, the Kennedys and M.L. King, Jr. in Sixties? We *better* not hope so, not when anyone can get a military-grade weapon like an AR-15 that spits death at an unholy rate sent through the mail. Forget Reacher having a discussion with gun store owner about getting pistols and ammo before 3-day ‘cooling off’ period because he knows some ways around regulations.
  • NATIONAL DEBT – Repugnants in Congress are VERY willing to gut every social program to pay for a multi-trillion dollar tax break for billionaires, knowing without any doubt it will put an already staggering debt ($36T) into non-Elon/SpaceX orbit. trump *immediately* tanked an envy-of-the-world economy he inherited from Biden. Does anyone doubt he told BBC (billionaire boys club) members when to get in-out of market? I don’t have any kids, but everyone else’s, know even worse times are coming regarding repayment and budget tradeoffs`.
  • Book banning, tariffs randomly slapped down against allies and (except Russia) others without reason, attempting to reverse any-all vestiges of DEI by wiping out even the mention of Enola Gay – which was name of bomber that dropped historic 1st ever nuke on Hiroshima – because of that last part of its name. NO taking gifts of value from other countries, and a prez who decides it doesn’t apply to him because ‘I’d have to be crazy not to accept something (as over the top) as a jumbo jet,’ and the illegal creation of a currency (Bitcoin-ish) anyone can buy without signaling they are gaining influence through BIG TIME direct bribes to him and family, is a constant drum beat.

Sorry, have to get back to Real Writing

Okay, not all of this was Saturday, but the WORLD *is* watching US and ‘cuz I’m a word guy, I needed to get it off my chest. It took a minimal amount of time for the end of Vietnam War – as soon as North knew US bombers wouldn’t be doing anything to slow their roll, they mopped up South Vietnam in weeks. As first war USA lost, its affected how this country went about things for decades, and today, EVERYONE truly wonders how ‘we’ can be trusted in almost any venue or for any reason.

Europe is moving on with necessary WHO and NATO-related operations (ie. Ukraine), long-time BFF Canada has its elbows up in the corners about little brother attitudes and trump’s cretin-ish musings of 51st state possibilities, and if the Orange One believing Greenland and the Panama Canal Zone can be taken militarily, he’s apparently no smarter than Putin about biting off more than he can chew. Thinking USA will escape devastation two previous world wars brought on everyone else isn’t about thought leadership or best practices, its ludicrous.

We the People has arrived at a bottom line about democracy. Picard’s “Here and no further!” for any Trekkies, or substitute ‘trumpies’ into a one-liner from Vietnam-era ‘Platoon,’ “Eff’n Cong are comin’, and they ain’t stoppin’ for shit!’ is legit too.

Ed. Note, 6/23/25 Freaking great, now he’s bombed Iran without, ‘doesn’t need,’ Congressional approval.

‘This isn’t how I remember things being’ is a common, wistful thought on lips of many #BoomerswithAttitude like myself. I recently put what is described as a premium graduation card-puzzle on Etsy (19″x13″, 15 pcs., $8.25 + shipping), because my microeconomy as a relative peasant non-billionaire class BETTER have an alt gig! When that ever-lovin’ 3rd rail, Social Security – which is NOT AN ENTITLEMENT, I PAID INTO IT SINCE AGE 16, OUT OF $1.65/hr. MCDONALDS PAYCHECK – is threatened right in front of us? Bullshit on ‘Better.’

Medicaid cuts and starving kids, loss of healthcare? Everything, everywhere, all at once? Holy crap!

‘Welcome to the Real World’ is an intentionally darker duotone piece, ‘WTRW’ was originally meant as a jaded look at employment situation, with the many inconveniences and crazy things grads et al face in 2025, We the People has arrived at a bottom line about democracy. Picard’s “Here and no further!” for any Trekkies, or sub ‘trumpies’ into a one-liner from Vietnam-era ‘Platoon,’ “Eff’n Cong are coming, and they ain’t stoppin’ for shit!’ is legit too.

Damn! That first election post-Watergate seems like a million years ago, when top Repubs like Goldwater told Nixon, “You gotta go!” because he’d lost the trust of the nation. Nixon had too much respect for the office to try staying, while trump has A-B-S-O-L-U-T-E-L-Y zero shame about demeaning office, and by the crudest example of Repub enablement, stuck it out legally through two impeachments.

Telling others Saturday that I didn’t attend gatherings about Vietnam, the HUGE loss of time, treasure, and lives it historically represents, an ultimate divisiveness it produced back then, I also said, BUT I’M HERE NOW. How about *you*?

POV - Content Creation, Thought Leadership

On Dad’s (sort of) birthday, thanks to Good Good Person Waldo Shorkey for my conversational ability, Good Character, 3 brothers

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on On Dad’s (sort of) birthday, thanks to Good Good Person Waldo Shorkey for my conversational ability, Good Character, 3 brothers

My Dad actually passed in late January, 2013, but watching the Daily Show episode where Jon Stewart eulogized his dog, 3-legged pound pet, Dipper, his line about ‘In a world of good boys, he was the BEST Good Boy,’ I felt the jolt- there’s a legitimate analogy for Dad. Especially when Stewart admits, with a catch in tone that’s obvious, “I thought I’d get further than this…” well, its taken all day to get this keyboarded.

$30 can get you a LOT of flowers. The feeling was always, ‘Thanks for taking care of my gal.’

Let’s start with playing racquetball, leaving house by 8:30 to play at court in Watervliet Arsenal, where he worked. Those mornings, just us, fun hitting, playing four-five games in an hour, checking his skills while playing shots back more in middle so he could make returns, so easy to enjoy.

As a child in mid-Thirties, Dad had polio, when polio killed a LOT of kids/people, or put them in iron lungs. Despite a smaller left leg, he served in Navy (’51-’55), but was never much of an athlete. Terrific bonding over decent physical effort, then using the Nautilus equipment at the building, and breakfast out someplace.

It was very pleasing to know he practiced extra at lunches to develop a *nasty* Z-serve as a lefty, getting it to drop just before hitting 3rd wall ( service fault), way down and dirty to my backhand. We beat a couple other father-son teams, he made shots when necessary. Super memory.

Putting together pool tables for $50. Dad’s P/T job (early ’70s) at Wards got him the ‘Assemble it yourself, or let our experts do it!’ gig, three sections of 3/4″ slate pool tables. During OPEC embargo, with gasoline prices through the roof, lots of people bought the home entertainment deals. We had so much business, older brother (Mike) worked with Dad’s buddy Sel as a second crew.

$20 for helper share usually meant $40 day, frequently two Sunday too, up to $80 was a GOLD MINE, great work conditions.

Dad always taught us how to use tools, but seeing his extra effort in making sure the plaster of Paris seams were absolutely right, ball returns all rolled smoothly, the felt was securely glued in the pockets, pride in workmanship was a consistent example to follow.

He’d send me to get the owner, let him know we were done, guy had often bought for teens and didn’t play, would tell Dad to go ahead, Dad *always* said, “Glenn’s our shooter.” First shot on 8-foot red table, never busted rack of gleaming balls, dropping a couple more, telling Dad there must be something wrong with that pocket if I missed. (Insert Tim Allen grunts) Always lunch, satisfaction with Quality of Doing, cash in pocket. ‘Measure twice, cut once’ – I’m smiling about brother who blew Dad’s best practices axiom while doing crown molding in his front room.

A feeling of Dad’s “Thanks for taking care of my gal,” was a Goodness on my mind every time, and I *know* Dad would have wanted pretty stuff for Mom’s caretakers too, so I always had a good second vase for nurses station.

Flowers for Mom’s caretakers at Carmel Hills, for her birthday, Mothers Day, or Easter. Dad was a great arranger for church displays in NY and FL, centerpieces since forever. I’ve told three brothers they can fight it out for Dad’s woodworking crown, I’ll aspire to his creative side, because he really had artistic talents. I’ve done well putting displays-projects together, so Mom (who passed in Sept. ’23) had flowers, and I bought plenty of supplies, because I *know* Dad would have wanted them to have pretty stuff too, so always a good second vase for nurses station.

When I visited folks in Tampa end of one February, to be there for Mom’s birthday (3/1), Dad and I were watching the US-Canada gold medal Olympic hockey game. For the only time I EVER recall him asking, when Mom said its time for dinner, Dad asked, “Is there any reason we couldn’t eat in here?” You could tell from Mom’s, “Because the FOOD is in here” response that her long-time philosophy on sitting down to eat and TV hadn’t changed over years or in retirement.

He sure wasn’t dying on that hill, and *without rushing* we only missed a couple minutes of next period. Historically, if the phone rang during dinner, Dad always said, “Let it ring, everyone we know knows dinner is 5-5:30. If its important, they’ll call back.”

Golfing on the nine hole, par three course inside the Watervliet Arsenal walls where he worked, early version. Only needed three clubs and shared a putter, we bought a couple on our own, 7s and 9s, maybe a five. Dad wasn’t a run or shoot athlete like us as maybe 10-12 year old guys, but he knew how to instruct three of us on grip and swing. We sprayed shots all over, cheered for lucky hits in the air.

We’d also go down to the Arsenal early on some Saturdays to pick through the top quality lumber, what lengths of steel to be machined into artillery, cannon, and tank gunnery had arrived in, which was the Arsenal’s business. Pinch bars and hammering out nails, turning crates and pads into safe pieces for transport and home projects, a life-long skill. The beam that became center to back porch – where it rested on the dashboard of Ford station wagon and red flag was hung a good three feet out rear window – is legendary. As a Hammer Guy, I’m a legend in my own mind.

That he signed consent form so I could play Pop Warner football was HUGE.

Coming down the driveway at 5:00

Dad came down the driveway within five minutes of 5:00 every day, a consistency I cherish above all else really. Its on first line of Thanks for Coming piece I produced and everyone got at folks 50th Anniversary in Tampa (2005). Whatever the score in basketball or street football game was, Dad was the ehhhh! buzzer. If you were behind, the game timing out could mean No Winner. Dad would give Mom a hug and kiss, then ‘Leave It to Beaver’ boys, wash up for dinner. Everyone talked around the table. The cook gets kissed.

Have to admit, the body of thoughtful work I produced with ceramics was come by honestly, just like Dad’s chatty friendliness.

He wasn’t sure how important whatever he might write in the leather journal I bought him could be, but on probably folks last trip through Europe, his super-positive sense of gratitude for the everyday events of life came through. There’s also a drawing of the red wagon Coca-Cola made for him! which he and a buddy loaded with ice and Cokes, servicing the Arsenal right across the street pretty well – kid was making $5/day during the Depression.

His sincere ‘…and that was great’ was as easily earned for meeting a young Belgian, who heard their English and talked with them, helped them about where and how to make sure about getting off at right station. Maybe just a lady whose pastries were excellent – because Dad had a sweet tooth – or when he and Mom visited an AFS exchange kids home in Switzerland, years after meeting as HS supporters in Schenectady, and were treated as close friends.

I’d never actually known it until a sister-in-law told me Dad really didn’t like vegetables (like beets), but he ate them because four boys needed a good example. Can I get an Amen for Dad’s on that?

Panther Football, Thought Leadership

A 15 Year old Time Capsule, Right on UConn win, A BIG Duke Win for Coach K and Schuyer, Zoubek Was The Man

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on A 15 Year old Time Capsule, Right on UConn win, A BIG Duke Win for Coach K and Schuyer, Zoubek Was The Man

I’d be tempted to throw in the link from 15 years ago yesterday, which credited UConn for its back-to-back titles, the obvious relationship for Duke coaches then and now, and the biggest Dookie, Brian Zoubek. Only time anyone recalls Coach K just pounding you with size, including two Plumlees.

While Kyle Singler and John Scheyer have been quality players for years, Duke wouldn’t have been in the NCAA Finals if Brian Zoubek hadn’t finally played a full, injury-free season. Duke changed from its usual defensive pressure to Playing Big, *really* big with the Plumlee brothers going 6’10” and jumping all over people, but this past month especially, Zoubek (that would be MISTER Zoubek to you Cal fans) showed exactly what being BIG and talented means. Rip down a rebound and everyone around you seems to be only armpit high, that is the epitome of Large. Singler was the MVP of the Final Four, but capping a college career the way he did was great for Zoo.

(Just how precisely the finale mirrored Duke’s loss this year shows how close winning-losing such events often is.)

No problem acknowledging how tough Butler played – even the great Duke champs of the past rarely played in-your-shirt, hand-to-hand-combat intense D better than the Bulldogs did Monday night.

Frankly, if that last half-court heave by Haywood banks in, all the air would’ve come out of Dookie Nation’s chest for well into the future. Nobody would be questioning whether Coach K was full of it by saying this was his greatest championship, though many consider it his best coaching job because the talent wasn’t as overwhelming as past teams…

The bottom line, 5th year useful guy Zoubek earned the ring so many expected freshman Flagg, and a superbly well assembled set of teammates, to emerge from a chalk walk of #1s to the Final Four March Madness in San Antonio with. One short-armed, fallaway J, one bummer of a foul call was the difference. No Mr. Big finale.

The air HAS gone out of Dookie Nation, how and when will anyone know whether Cooper comes back? Yeah, yeah about his NIL value at Duke, $4.8 mill you say? They hustled his incubation time to make him a stud professional NBA legend at 19, won’t another year put a beating on his Year 4 valuations…Blah, blah, blah. Love the commercial where he gets sweated up at bingo. Or did the first 999 times. NBA body and smarts, got it.

Tough to maintain focus in college fishbowl? NBA is eighty-two games, THEN the abuse of playoff *series,* not onesies. Doubters about being ready? Mostly no doubt. Bird-like? C’mon. Stay or go? Pull the ripcord my man, be a great student-athlete example. Hey, that twin of yours who didn’t push up a class, he got any game?

Plenty of time to What If –

Two weeks from NFL draft, the Carolina Panthers don’t have exactly the same falling off a cliff decision with #8 pick as Flagg to NBA. Still plenty of guessing about HOW MUCH defense is enough, enabling the drafting of other than necessary edge rushers and linebackers from a deep group.

The What If – Penn St. tight end Tyler Warren fell to #8 Panthers pick, would Morgan prioritize XYZ (Walker from GA) on defense ahead of selecting ANOTHER tight end who blocks and catches very, very well, and would continue filling RB and a tight end room just about like HC Canales has frequently stated? https://www.espn.com/college-football/player/_/id/4431459/tyler-warren

While there’s still a quantity of #MrTeppers$ available, Morgan paid up for a LOT of talent in the most necessary places during ‘legal tampering period.’ The Panthers Football Operations people kept Ejiro Evero as Defensive Coordinator after a brutal statistical season – and a previous #4 rated one, before a solid linebacking corps went free agent. Morgan provided the ONE absolute that 3-4 defense required, a nose tackle who is great on holding up double teams with physical dimensions.

If you haven’t heard about a signee from Rams name of Rozeboom, he notched about as many tackles as Panthers D-line had last season (135), you will want to see how he operates.

Don’t sweat the Eagles DT (Williams) who blew Panthers off for $104MM of the Patriots money, *that* friends, is what over-paying looks like.

The Great American Family Experience, 9 am Saturday version

A little Control on the world, maybe

It never hurts to call a high strike to make sure the batter remembers we talked about getting swings vs. looks before the game. I love covering specific situations in pre-game talks, which become easy judgements when they happen (recently). I listen to what a manager wants to fix about something I also witnessed to develop possible explanations/resolutions.

I’ve been the plate umpire every time out because as old-ish veteran, I have the equipment the 15-year olds I’ve teamed with recently don’t. I’ve made a difference with many catchers, telling them to get bats out of the way, so they don’t interfere with a play. I tell the crowd how catchers move the location of pitches (very worthwhile talk). I picked up three games this week, and maintain LL is a healthy outing after WFH writing and blogging.

Pass on a Friday nite gig to play poker? Nahh, no guarantee I’d win big, and there’s those taxes, about two terrific hours of community involvement with the Great American Family Experience will help pay for.

$600 into Umpiring this Spring, I’ve gotten hit kind of regularly, a couple of the ‘particularly close’ genre. When pitcher barely had enough juice to bounce it off the edge of the plate – then right past the catchers ear, never even got a glove up – it doesn’t hurt, but the streak has ended. 4/5/25

The NHL playoffs begin April 19th. Possible latest ending date – June 23rd. I’m not a hockey bettor. Charlotte Hornets (19-61) fans will have open schedules shortly, but they weren’t really bettable either. There might be a reason to talk about LaMelo shortly. Just sayin,’ if Mavs can pull the pin with Luka a season after Finals, LaMelo is not untouchable as Face of Franchise.

I will tell any nice ladies in advance of the much hotter part of LL baseball season, yes, I will always accept a Gator or PowerAde, any flavor. Here’s to the Great American Family Experience.

Two weeks to Morgan Draft #2, not so bad waiting for actual progress vs. fantastical trades and must gets online verbiage. Grab yourself an Ultra (or Dr. Pepper) like Billy Bob in ‘Land Man,’ hang with a bad enough Good Woman you’re sure there’s not a snowballs chance of Happiness ever happening with, but rest assured, Panthers GM Dan Morgan is doing a *fine* job of investing #MrTeppers$, not yours.

If that includes getting a super chunk of ath-o-lete as a first rate, NFL ready offensive weapon for Bryce Young’s upcoming third year, I’ll be good with that.

POV - Content Creation, Sports, Thought Leadership

March Madness sure, but call him out for ‘Winner gets X’ foul-shooting

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on March Madness sure, but call him out for ‘Winner gets X’ foul-shooting

Ladies, at this most NCAA hoopster-hysterical time of the year, why not – no, Definitely! – get your favorite gym rat out for a game of ’21’. Relax, its not breaking any Guy Codes to clue the ladies about this smaller than the bedroom (but potentially related) stroke problem.

Its easy to ride the testosterone train when hubby-boyfriend returns triumphant, victory setting off that adorable story-teller who wants to replay drives and rainbow jumpers, doling out three-beer kisses and tastefully sweaty manliness. Nobody likes a whiner, but when story-teller is bringing you a mental boo-boo like ‘I sucked’ because they missed a couple foul shots that meant staying out of two basketball games, and ‘We should have won’ but he missed a couple more unguarded shots from that distance, well, this is your time.

Consider this information relative to ‘Five Minute Great Abs!’ tabloid ads because you’ll feel show-offy smooth and quietly better, but recognize there’s a possibility that winning can go either way for all He/She battles.

Guys almost always assume victory, perhaps forgetting you were an All-State guard in high school, maybe All-Conference in college, have three brothers, was #1 scorer on your intramural co-ed team, or just how many hours you hoisted foul shots in the back yard while carrying a second child because it brought a measure of peace to your body, which otherwise felt seriously wonky-off kilter.

Free-throw shooting is a premium skill

Fifteen feet, up and in. Especially with any ‘small white guard’ tag attached, making free throws was integral to playing basketball at all levels during formative years, the lights and attention are just bigger-brighter at NCAA time. Those extra points are supposedly gravy, playing with house money, a piece of cake, punishing opponents for hacking the wrong guy. All kidding aside, foul-shooting is a legitimate point of pride and extremely fair way of judging oneself Better- its not just free throw shooting, okay?

Hoopsters believe free-throw shooting (the terms are interchangeable) is elementally linked to a Universal Cookie Jar-type reward system: Do well there, somehow earn (deserve!) goodies, from successful dates to 12-packs of Michelob Light to new jobs. Three nights before my 60th birthday, I missed FIVE in a row, totally dissatisfied with my shot and life. A few months later, having rediscovered effective shooting techniques during a just-sneakers-and shorts-lets-get-this-right-again session (after eight hours of retail laboring), damn straight! a terrific job offer dropped into the equation.

Coincidence you say? Not hardly.

Almost everyone understands the simple but absolute fairness of this elemental basketball situation. When a player has been fouled, the penalty is an uncontested shot (or two, sometimes three) from a line 15 feet from the backboard. ’21’ isn’t a me and you, dribble and shoot one-on-one battle, nor HORSE, where failure to make more difficult shots by one player adds letters to the others ‘total’ until a final letter (E) ends the game. ’21’ is about free-throw accuracy, not physical size and superiority.

Although players get a chance at a one-point layup if they’ve broken the ice (meaning made at least one free throw earlier), the best option is to make as many consecutive foul shots as possible each turn to end the game faster. As kids, making ten in a row (x2=20) put immediate ‘you miss, you lose!’ pressure on an opponent. (Couple years ago I strung together 14, something I hadn’t accomplished in decades; other guy made 13!)

Its supposedly gravy, playing with house money, a piece of cake, punishing opponents for hacking the wrong guy. All kidding aside, foul shooting is a legitimate point of pride and extremely fair way of judging oneself Better- its not ‘just’ foul-shooting, okay?

Battle of the sexes – depends how you play it

FTs are worth a single point in regular games – when you’re only counting what’s happening as just a game on the most ordinary plane. If, or probably when, you’ve heard your ex-gym rat express an “That idiot missed both and he’s been shooting the lights out! ANYBODY should be able to make one, everyone knows you don’t make foul shots, you wind up going home!” opinions, THAT would be the time to extend your challenge to ‘play for something.’

Does it matter what task or amount? Ohhhh, you BET is does for 97.4% of red-blooded males, but cash should be a secondary consideration. A primary concern for such challenges is/should be gaining the 100% attention of said male. Whether or not you get to uhhh, playfully, dog him about losing is up to you, but if its usually a hassle to get the garbage taken out, he’ll remember there are three more days left in your bet. As George (from Seinfeld) might complain, he’s got no (upper) hand. BUT…

Is he going to want another chance, probably sooner than later? You betcha.

You could just volunteer to chase misses while he works out some frustration about sucking, but if he WINS, isn’t everyone happier? (DO NOT TANK and think you rescued his ego!) Will he brag to his buddies about victory? Probably not, although guys do deserve a few props if She/you IS a former All-Something competitor.

Is it legitimate to talk smack, throw an errant pass back that makes them move off a good spot (very legit gamesperson-ship), maybe offer an immediate rematch? Absolutely, he can miss eight minutes of the second half and maybe you don’t care, especially when the next game is the one he’s really been psyched to see.

Bottom line, most guys are not snake-bite, 88% poison on foul-shooting like they might imagine. In another foul-shooting situation called ‘Rochester,’ its an everyone-against-everyone game, and when you score a basket, you get the chance to make up to three foul shots. Score 7-8-9 points without having to knock heads with six other dudes, that’s an incentive. Missing the ‘and one’ at 21 causes you to go back to 15, which is obviously not a best practices thing to do three or four times – you will get beat.

So March Madness can become a regular time for some extra competition, and he WILL appreciate the chance to shoot it out with you. You can also get out a bit and work on your stroke rather than just soothing his ego by losing. If he wins the right to have you bring him beers, is an empty hand raised and ‘Honey?’ the worst thing you can imagine, because win one and its negotiation time; you don’t have to take EVERY bet. Favorite dinner that YOU don’t make, or who takes carpool soccer duty this week? For sure.

Foul-shooting is 100% fair competition. Have some fun with it, don’t sweat your brackets either. If good ol’ Sunspot U. can’t do better than 8-22 from the line, be thankful you missed a bunch of that game. If he comes back laughing, bonus points.

Business, Community based pr, Thought Leadership

5 Beyond Solid-Good Things Done this Week, Check! Art Stuff Too

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on 5 Beyond Solid-Good Things Done this Week, Check! Art Stuff Too
#BoomerwithAttitude is still on tap, no great sympathy for those creating chaos with external meddling AND, even though nobody asked, willing to quantify what’s on my overall plate.

Getting in three full 10.5 mile rides on X-Charlotte Trail over 8 days is legitimate #1 on Count it! physicality. Haven’t done over thirty mile week in a year, stubby tires mountain bike is a challenge. Riding as reward factor for writing Monday ‘Resumes’ piece that included Gene Hackman and me, I’m positive about pursuing the right opportunity.

Getting a *great* haircut from Desirous was a clutch decision about feeling shaggy for an important presentation. No kidding, Looking Good and Old School tactics like ‘Being there’ are still difference makers.

Bike riding is my very quantifiable, long-term asset for physical confidence, and counting positives physically at sixty-eight is a legitimate good habit. Staying on fun and firmness brings lots of people out to share the well-maintained pavement with. Ride in 74 degrees and sunshiney NC afternoon, then Food and NCAA hoops watching was overall Saturday Reality. There’s plenty of tense going around, I’ll be for more tennis – not ignorance, choice.

Yes, I admit loving how the Canadians, calm and clear Trudeau, excellent hand-off of a small crisis to New Guy, still stuffing trump every shift (hockey term) of news cycle, making it clear its not about hating US, but Tariffs- Elbows up, damn straight! (AND PAY YOUR ELECTRIC BILL, EY! notice is coming from Ontario soon…)

Four more with Good Reasons, ey?

A physical release in optimal weather is a deserved time-out reward, so take credit for doing something necessary, important, or Special. Including ‘Me’ in the company of Hackman and NFL QBs in Monday morning LinkedIn article was being seriously happy about a ‘specific and terrific’ cover letter I’d sent about a challenging EA administrative role.

Adding in the killer haircut and not-worn-often-enough-lately charcoal suit and sweet, coral-colored with ducks tie, presenting myself at their local HQ with additional quality examples of my written communications expertise, was a solid, Old School doubling down Tuesday. Since the HR person is now a LinkedIn connection, I’ll point out that ‘Resume’ piece shortly. Call the total effort #2,3 on good things accomplished.

#4 Mint Museum, Wednesday for Freebie Night

Over my thirty years in Charlotte (same as Panthers), you’d sometimes hear, ‘But there’s not so much cultural here (or bagels stiffness, or crispier crust..).’ My response is ‘There’s a coffee mug for that, ‘If its so important, GO BACK!’ -3/5/25 GShork story to new Charlotte person Brittny, touring the Mint Wednesday, *plenty* to appreciate on three floors.

I decided on visiting the Mint late last week, and arriving 6:20, strolled three floors and multiple galleries for 90 minutes. Perhaps not demonstrative proof of culture, but I defend those exceptional aspects like the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra (which played for Pavoratti), does four wonderful June concerts behind SouthPark Mall and Christmas events downtown; regular Broadway tours at The Blumenthal, and culture *does* includes TWO Mint Museums and a Bechtler.

That literary park with Authors signs, sounds, fountains across the street is a treat to show visitors every time. Just sayin.’

I only gave away two CDTalententerprises cards, one to Brittny ‘without an A’, a favorite kind of memory hook clarifier, me being a two N Glenn. She said she was a newbie to Charlotte, we walked and talked, plenty of other participants to share opinions with too. I came back for her when I found something unique-r, and I’d be pleased if Brittny uses the good information that’s found on my good-looking card.

I have a tux & I know how to use it.

Clothes make The Man? If not now, When? Compared to mid-week usual, Styling a black felt hat that keeps getting noticed, Dad’s brownish-green hounds-tooth jacket, green shirt, antique-unique tie, tuxedo pants, I thought I might even drop in someplace afterwards. Wound up 100% satisfied as imagined with a self-guided event.

There were MUCH more display galleries in this Mint Location than I imagined. I’ve been in Charlotte long enough for this to be third iteration with Mint name.

There were a significant number of younger people as a category, nice mixture overall.

As I conveyed to an LI connection afterwards, networking has always been a strength, I have plenty of confidence in talking to others. Sports writing background and sales, Q&A has always been my standard, and after two full years WFH, I’ve missed that aspect. If not Great Expectations, engaging on Art is do-able.

I’ll get around to describing a microeconomic situation at Nordstrom’s in my ‘Don’t Give Up Your Day Job’ non-fiction book, but having a bit of artsy background, and being historically gregarious, Wednesday counted as a terrific reboot, new Social Goodness as an easy to achieve priority.

#5 – Opportunity to be of Service – Good Thought, it worked out

While I declined a nomination for Club Secretary in February, somebody else stepped forward during actual elections Friday for our community Mens Club meeting, so while I rethought taking the post (4x previous) because certain long-term organizational knowledge might be a clutch difference in success, guess we’ll see. More actual good PR for solid, long-time organization continues with Fridays annual Fish Fry. As a #BoomerwithAttitude, I’ll keep that communications/leadership club in my bag, use my five wood more in the Spring Captain’s Choice.

OKAY – Create a 700-900 word blog on a regular schedule – 1st of three on Monday, check on new habit, Week Two. Quantified, specific. Just me.

Health care, Political, Sports, Thought Leadership

Social Goodness mission in NY, Gratitude for casino results, Olympic stuck-the-landing drive

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Social Goodness mission in NY, Gratitude for casino results, Olympic stuck-the-landing drive
Driving five miles for coffee was rewarded (twice) by having better than regular java at FoCastle Farms with refills and super-cinnamon soft cake cider donuts.

Enjoyed nephew’s Raleigh wedding and family time to the max Friday and Saturday, then high speed, point-to-point, 700+ miles Sunday in 100 degree heat driving north was affirming. Ten ‘As I Damn Well Please’ days of max mental health in NY, then 829 miles in 12 hours to stick the proverbial landing in Charlotte Thursday was Mission Accomplished stuff.

I made two timely decisions to stop for directions, then relied on incredible 35.4 mpg in my silver Sonata, Bullitt2, and dead reckoning navigation skills. #BoomerwithAttitude in 2024 is Eye-it and-fly-it.

Having promised myself nine holes of good swings (screw scoring), and played two balls all the way (from whites, several 440-plus) in breezy 86 degree sunshine, yay! for 5 wood and wedge work. Wouldn’t have tried playing in 97 heat in Charlotte. Saturday at racetrack was a qualified economic loss, but looking good every bit of the day-night, checking my casino luck-skill (+1200 last year) was a classic Yes! on skills.

Greatest unexpected positive was whacking tennis balls with brother David, now 64, in light sprinkle and fading light. Only hit a dozen or so, but seemed to have that nasty break on his serve right out of the closet. Can you believe it, a doctor suggested stressing his leg could help some necessary rebuilding of bone issue. It doesn’t get much better than that for a birthday gift, right?

Why should anyone care about my road trip? Personal JOY and mental health were the prime consideration, because there might be tense times in near future. I’m taking responsibility for my actions in pursuit of that joy, infringing on nobody else. I tipped one dealer $25 – a decent sharing if there’s rent and groceries, I’m just enjoying a little Life rush. My cards – tarot reading is hook to my books – indicated a Good Woman is supposed to be appearing, I’d appreciate that more than boxing a trifecta in next part of 2024.

Social Goodness plans for playing more tennis, that begins immediately. I’ll let you know about the serving part, my shoulder still sounds funny from bike accident in 2020.

Wednesday was definitely casino time

Even after hitting with David until 8:30 in the gloaming and sprinkle, Wednesday was definitely last casino time, went with a seersucker pearl-blue jacket, gray slacks, Bugachi blue-blue shirt, had same felt hat with $200 budget each time. Wound up driving to Schenectady three times, doubling my $$$ the last two. That’s not quite Olympian determination or success, but I appreciated having discipline to say, ‘$200 up, take the traveling cash and I quit’ after just 45 minutes.

Yeah, a bathroom selfie instead of red silk boxers on a Texan with cigar, but I was glad to uphold Saratoga tradition-rep of looking good.

Filling up my Social Goodness tank, bro and I enjoyed Wheatfields 1 lb. Lasagna and bright lights on Broadway post-races that Saturday. Hitting an exacta ($66) with favorite as #2 worked great for bankroll early, freed up betting through featured 11th, a $500k Grade 1 race. Losing voucher slip ($55) at end of day was one of few negatives on two week odyssey-road trip.

I never made it to Siro’s this year, always give it homage in my books. With all the fast driving, I smooshed a cone to avoid a collision at a rotary, so panel awry and $200 parking ticket at downtown location for wedding welcome night, I’d feel okay wishing anyone such a trouble free vacation.

Okay, the water pressure at Dave’s wasn’t that hot, but neither were daily temps, 10-12 degrees less than Charlotte and breezy, high 50s at night, windows open!

Picture of guy in red silk boxers, cowboy hat, cigar

A historic picture of LeSharque (checking as Romance writer name?) in red silk boxers and bow tie is now part of GShork’s Attitude 2024. Just FYI, the classy tuxedoed gent I’m referencing was supposed to be an artsy classic https://artincontext.org/roy-lichtenstein/ The ‘voice bubble’ over the cowboy hat, taped to some coat hanger and anchored with an ace bandage wrap, specifically addressing the red silk boxers, says “I’m so gal-durn rich, I bet nobody notices I’m wearing red silk boxers outside like I’m freaking Madonna.”

That’s some of the Attitude I’m copping at this point. I will not be cowering from any whoa-ho! post-Biden announcement fears after return from Saratoga. How I continue to keep an Etsy microeconomy and personal momentum going into Fall of ’24 is my short term focus. I got official notice about responsibility, and will train as first-time election precinct official (after 40 years as a voter), beginning in August. I’m refreshed and ready for this run to November.

Not sure how The Great Recession, COVID Pandemic, and now resisting *another* round of trump negatives will stack up with Brokaw’s ‘Greatest Generation’ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Greatest_Generation_(book) but there’s a magnitude of something coming next four months. If my post-Biden analogy-prediction of bloody heads popping in profusion in trump world like Season 3-4 of The Boys holds up, let Miller be in that scene. Just sayin’.

We’ll see how the Olympics roll for USA

The first election I voted was 1976, post Watergate. I always gave those Repubs who went to Nixon and said, “Nuh-uh, you can’t stay,” credit for reality and pride, doing right by the country and office. Nixon wouldn’t do about 10,000 of the things trump et al minions continue doing in service of The Big Huge Lie. These last two SCOTUS verdicts, wow! but Uncle Joe stepping down for the good of party and country, Legendary is the best word.

I’m chuckling out loud at Pubs demanding Speaker Johnson investigate whether the President lied about his cognitive powers after this. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/can-t-tell-the-truth-mike-johnson-caught-in-lie-about-joe-biden-s-health/ar-BB1qf0f5?ocid=BingNewsSerp Will the Olympics take all the air out of Repubs and news cycle, until they LEAVE EARLY, with a withering amount of financial bills to fix? Will that give Harris (+$200M raised in short period after change, direct link to Women’s support) an opportunity to showcase her leadership more than LeBron against South Sudan, or on boat for opening ceremonies?

Every group will get air time at convention, Biden’s age is no longer a question. Let’s admit, for several cycles the Dem’s haven’t been guilty of circular firing squads. Open convention or aligned on committed delegates is solid, the business-task at hand 100% known. Bigger deal than Olympics? Yeah, second won’t really count.

Like the US Men’s Olympic Super Team of NBA stars https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/wnba/us-mens-basketball-team-rolls-past-serbia-110-84-in-opening-game-at-the-paris-olympics/ar-BB1qMhIf?ocid=BingNewsSerp (oh my! KD 21 pts. on 8/8 shooting in first half), Biden, and now Harris, must continue proving *this* 2024 version of USA democracy is worthy of the hype and expectations, even after nailing an overall Greater Good promise, saving things that we’ve come to think of as New Normal in post-pandemic, not-elected trump world.

Ms. Biles is beyond spectacularly back, the USWNT put two excellent games together in soccer competition behind a new coach https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/lifestyle-buzz/the-story-behind-uswnt-s-coach-at-the-olympics-emma-hayes/ar-BB1qC4dK?ocid=BingNewsVerp, and Katie Ledecky is still Katie Ledecky, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XIC6O9P4WE with a 1:53.6 leg in 4x200m freestyle, but lots of medal-level activity in Paris won’t change immediate political challenges at home.

For the female boxer who quit her match with a ‘questionably gendered/previously suspended’ fighter whose punch was ‘far, far more painful than anything she had ever experienced,’ yes, you need to pick another sport.

Business, Sports, Thought Leadership

No Fear in Panthers Draft After Well-Done Free Agency, Hornets Making Big Moves Too?

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on No Fear in Panthers Draft After Well-Done Free Agency, Hornets Making Big Moves Too?

Panthers GM Dan Morgan traded up to a #1 pick for USC star wide receiver Xavier Legette, Charlotte makes headway vs. Loserville tag. Belief will still take Ws by Canales, and Brandon Miller, JJ Redick are Hornets longshots.

I’m going to do Little League umpiring again in May-June. At 67, I consider it a privilege to have even this much input on youth sports, and appreciate the parents who spend all weekend there – as long as little sisters have enough snacks, all is well. Loved this sign.

Nice try, Hornets

There’s been deserved interest in JJ Redick getting his name tossed into consideration for the Charlotte Hornets head coaching spot, and the notion Brandon Miller might grab some Rookie of the Year votes from Wemby’s huge campaign is nice – he rated ‘best’ three months this year, and 17.3 ppg/4.3 reb/2.4 asst/44% shooting was solid. Wembanyama’s defensive presence is immediately huge in voting, his offensive upside from 21.4 ppg/10.6 rebs means ‘It’s nice to be considered’ time for Miller.

Hornets having a 13.3% chance of getting #1 pick in NBA draft is almost Holy Grail territory for them, haven’t been close to a franchise player in forever. Even a Top Three would mean a very sound additional piece for a new coach to work with, as Steve Clifford moves to another role in the organization.

JJ Redick has no experience at any coaching level, and whether he’s as smart and capable of making changes that a similarly undocumented commentator cum Legend, Pat Riley, accomplished in turning the Los Angeles Lakers into the Showtime! Lakers of the ’80s, you’ll be reading that option more than once before any actual decision gets made.

There’s a decent list of candidates without Redick’s ACC (2x POY) and 15 year pro career resume. Most have the previous assistant experience that Dave Cowens (San Antonio) had when taking reins to 1996-1997 team that swapped out essentially an entire starting team.

’96-’97 Cowens team came from Everywhere

Listening from next table to owner George Shinn and Charlotte magazine editor, who confessed she didn’t have a sports writer that Press Day, became my first sportswriting gig in Charlotte, and honestly, soooo dead on the money. New HC Dave Cowens was spread across a couple folding chairs, he shrugged when I confessed being a Knick fan who hated his guts while he played for Celtics. Yeah yeah, two million and eight…

Dell Curry was still hoisting treys, so was Tom Chambers, Matt Geiger turned out to be a terrific ‘other’ 7-footer, who played to Cowens defense- oriented POV, 6’8″ Glen Rice from the Heat, swooping in from the wings (27 ppg), good-passing center Vlade Divac from Lakers for rights to Kobe, and NBA 6th Man Anthony Mason in trade for Larry Johnson’s absurd contract, it really did have personnel. With tighter defense down to league average, nobody just cha-chaing through the lane, and improved scoring, 52-30 was right on my preseason projection.

Not everybody shot threes either. Geiger wasn’t shy about contact, lots of post fouls to give with 7′ Zidek. Burrell was a physical specimen who didn’t get regular time because of injury, Mugsy was around. ‘Not enough dough, so Zo go’ was start of when Shinn got stupid, he didn’t reward Cowens after two good years either, started making noise about leaving if he didn’t get better stadium deal.

Hornets had been THE Team attendance since the beginning, but when Bob Johnson wondered why he hadn’t gotten the $$$ support from community he’d been lead to consider his due, the fact was, many people still cared more about their college teams, and could watch them for FREE, two or three times a week. The NBA product suffered – HOF Coach Larry Brown once said, “I got 12 guys with guaranteed contracts, and I don’t want any of them!” and there were a significant number of years when the Bugs weren’t hardly significant at all.

In 1999, Dawn Staley, one of the most decorated players https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dawn_Staley in women’s basketball history, was selected #9 by the WNBA Charlotte Sting, leading them to the Finals in 2001.

The last season Hornets made the playoffs (48-34) was 2016, with Clifford as coach. Miller’s chances for ROY in Year One of Wemby has a ring of truth, there’s a question of Bridges status (although its an economic wash), and there’s really only one major contract (Bertans, $16M) for consideration. Redick’s ‘Old Man and the Three’ podcast and a strategy podcast with LeBron ‘Mind the Game,’ might be upgrades from Riley’s rep-duties as sidekick to Chick Hearn way back then, so JJ Redick might be a popular mention here, but the new owners have CPA firm seriousness beyond paying $3B to get team from Mike, y’know?

If ever there was an example of ripping off the Band Aid, it was Panthers losing Burns AND Luvu AND Grosse-Matos. If you read the microeconomy of cap finances, top two would’ve sucked a lot of whatever $$ from the room, so management took the hit now. You can’t bedgrudge the Hornets clearing house as well, bringing in 8-9 new guys is a real possibility. Why should it be otherwise?

Back to Panthers and #1 Pick

Time to put away the negative vibes about Fitterer, and lets be satisfied with how Mr. Tepper has handled, or more accurately *not* had any hands seen, in free agent period. I repeat, its time to lay Fitterer years to rest, NOBODY is going to have to sweat Xavier Legett as Panthers initial #1 of Canales-Morgan-Tilis brain trust as flawed.

No predictions on W-L in NFC South either, but yoiks! on Falcons picking 24-year old Penix after they spent $100M on post-Achilles surgery Cousins is a head scratcher. We’ll also see if Tampa Bay replaces the offensive coordination that Canales and Idzik represented with Bucs last year, now working in Charlotte, maybe how well Baker Mayfield does, dragging a big ol’ contract behind him…

Admitting I considered Fitterer had done as requested by bringing in whatever quarterbacks he did, ‘just dropping in a QB’ was never an operational fact. Yes, everyone thought the 2022 rushing attack would make life easy for Young, even if Panthers gave away only deep threat (Moore) to Bears. That deal is also a dead and gone fact, Caleb Williams was indeed the name Chicago used for overall #1, and the gift-wrapped bonus of Moore produced an exceptional year (96 rec./1,364 yds/8 TDs) for the receiver we appreciated while here.

Taking Moore on your fantasy team is fine, just recognize he isn’t going to be All That for us again. XL, that’s a lot of hope.

No doubts isn’t True

It took until the Panthers went 11-0 by thumping the Cowboys in Dallas on Thanksgiving that Carolina fans started believing a Super Bowl was possible. Its a time-tested standard that still works. Newton isn’t that 2016 quarterback, Young and Canales won’t be the 2016 team, or 2023 version either.

–Glenn S., 4/26/24 Plenty of leeway between 15-1 and 2-15, right?

So, something a bit higher up the scale from golf applause for the Hornets on a sports weekend that feels pretty decent. I’m going to the Checkers playoff hockey game Saturday afternoon. https://charlottecheckers.com/articles/will-lockwood-scores-late-shorthanded-goal-to-give-checkers-game-1-win-over-hartford I might even put a couple FanDuel bucks on OKC, https://www.espn.com/video/clip/_/id/40020191 but backing LeBron’s Lakers (or a sucker bet on which team might select Bronny in order to gain his favor) ain’t happening.

Health care, POV - Content Creation, Thought Leadership

Finally, positive for COVID – Right after English Gent’s Tux & Suit Double Broke a Long Cold Streak

by gshorkeyblt21 Comment on Finally, positive for COVID – Right after English Gent’s Tux & Suit Double Broke a Long Cold Streak
Is there anything better than the squeals of children at play, ice cream with parents, AND a firetruck?

While still wondering why I’m surprised people don’t recognize salespeople are on commission, I was exceedingly glad to have that quite amiable COO-level, English gentleman appear last Wednesday evening. Late January-early February isn’t the greatest time in retail, so his Boss tuxedo ($995) and Peter Millar midnight blue suit ($795) double-bubble put my reputation back in place. I’m alone Mondays and Wednesdays, but it’d been ten days since I’d gone through the whole process…

We were both well-pleased with the minimal tailoring necessary to achieve final product, and fact he’d be able to report the two-for-one effort as accomplishment to his wife, whose apparently spoken of his ‘hour of hard labor’ at such times. Of course, he was wearing proper shoes for tux-hunting, found the waist (surprisingly?) well-fitted at 34 with the Millar, a remark heard often in these post-pandemic times.

We were both pleased with the minimal tailoring necessary to achieve final product, and fact he’d be able to report the two-for-one effort as a significant accomplishment to his wife.

–Me, Monday after Super Bowl, tested positive, and in office with keyboard

Now is my brush with pandemic times?

I had to call out Friday because I was draining massively. Friend suggested that, while Nature was kind of busting loose with 66 degree days, I might want to get ahold of a COVID test kit. I didn’t do the swab – very good directions all the way – until Saturday a.m., and now will be out of work for whatever period of time.

I admit not being as diligent with mask as several others in department, and very infrequent user of available sanitizer. A general feeling of fatalism – more a sooner or later deal – has prevailed. When I finally blew my nose enough to call out, I got four free boxes of tests at Walgreens no problem. I watched the Super Bowl alone, and the ratatouille I made instead of just chili, it laid on my guts like lead.

That friend at Pfizer said, “It was in the list of options of what might happen,” so I’ll accept that constipation is why I’ve been grouchy about tummy tenderness.

Yeah, yeah, there’s paperwork to be done regarding self-identfying after testing positive. I’ll fill that out shortly. Friend at Pfizer says she can’t be around someone who tested positive, so killing post-Valentine’s Day hockey date is second casualty of COVID.

How Close to Being a Bad Person?

How about a reality check of ‘bad person’? I ran out of gas a couple blocks from home Monday, so visited Mom at Carmel Hills of Tuesday, when my temperature at check in was 97.8, oxygen level 99. It was a good talking session, at least she was engaged, and the fur hat she wore was worthy of comment.

I definitely started draining nasally on Wednesday. On Thursday night, I went to a basketball game at Queens (84-80 loss to Eastern KY) with brother Steve. Both times I wound up with a maskful of liquid, not a great feeling. There weren’t many people around us at game, it was pretty good stuff to get out for whats a solid neighborhood event.

I had mask on while trying to figure out scanning their Qcode to get into game (I failed, but got in anyway) with two students, was right next to brother, but walked there and back alone.

I’m particularly worried about time with Mom so close to kaboom! descent of symptoms on Wednesday, and while its out of my hands, I’m going to wipe down my keyboard once in a while. I used the test kit because there was no difference in ignoring the answer it could provide – testing positive – than what I thought so stupid in others who wouldn’t acknowledge how ignorance might kill their aged Moms, friends, or family back in the bad pandemic days.

Three Weeks into 66

Five years ago today, the slaughter at Parkland was the biggest news of the day. That’s also the day Mom got out of the hospital after a-fib troubles, and I became her primary care for next six months. Getting her to nephew Paul and Caitlyn’s marriage in Raleigh was a Biggie, possibly the greatest thing I’m ever responsible for, and it makes me aware of how we all have to take care of ourselves as we take care of others.

Its a good-looking day out for #gshorkonsharonroadseam. I’ve made an appointment to get a full physical, which I haven’t had in two years.

I’m still a Boomer with Attitude -I made it to the very end of COVID before I invariably got it. I finally read a full book, which I got from one of those stick libraries around my neighborhood. ‘The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest’ was 561 pages, and it was worth reading. I didn’t read to Mom last time there, when she’s relatively up for chatting, I take 3-4 min. videos for rest of family.

I also went to regular church for first time since Christmas or a funeral, since NC locked down in March, 2020.

It was a very worthwhile Super Bowl, one we can hold up as an example of teamwork and, because you’ll hear it forever more, “You don’t bet against guys like Mahomes in the clutch.”

Did I allow myself to get a bit blase about ordinary healthcare concerns at the end? Are you still as observant of the rules, especially where eldercare is concerned?

Happy Valentines Day to all applicable parties.

Hoops and heat for ‘Lockdown Prep’ NC weekend, some worries about NY people
Business, Thought Leadership

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

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Being of Service: A Three-Suit Sales Day, Brunch person, COVID doctor

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.
Political, Sports, Thought Leadership

Micro-economy still ‘suits me,’ Moore blunder speaks of excitement too

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Micro-economy still ‘suits me,’ Moore blunder speaks of excitement too
During pandemic, hoops behind Rama Elementary were only ones in Meck. County not double-2×4 stopped from use. New net was least I could do.

With two shifts left this pay period, I’m $2000 from goal, so yes, I’ll wear the Hugo Boss Blue on Saturday. Like Astros no-hitting Phillies, you ride your best players – that suit is $$$.

Having Sunday off, I shrieked with all of Charlotte for HUGE Moore helmet blunder, guess many still care. *Very* interesting game PJ!! up to finale. D’onta Foreman 118 yds, 3 TDs – that O-line was working. #Glenn Bossnblue, author, is a new cdtalententerprises.com product.

FYI, I early-voted, a ten minute commitment from parking and crossed blue line to check in to done. Visited with Mom before that, she just got her new chair with head rest, so took her outside to look at the lake and trees, then shot hoops for 25 minutes before 12:30 lunch and ready for work. That’s why people aren’t willing to surrender their daily freedoms in WFH mode instead of office mandate.

New Normal works for many. Hanging another net at Rama Road Elementary required standing on top of my car and holding onto the rim while threading the loops through. Took about same ten minutes as voting…Broke it in right, you betcha. I’ve liked shooting there forever, draining shots from Anchorage, Alaska part of America painted in parking lot is satisfying.

An undeniable Aww shit! moment

It doesn’t seem possible even yet, that Panthers star receiver DJ Moore would do ‘something like that.’ He’s been a great pro for couple years, a highly regarded route runner and genuinely tough guy to get on the ground. All respects due, and he got the contract extension to prove he’s All That. Yeah, BIG dramatic moment, because with a point after, a crucial victory would have immediately thrust the struggling Panthers back into a playoff position in the division.

Is it possible, watching as kicker Eddie Pineiro missed a 1) 48-yard extra point and 2) a chip shot FG to avoid defeat after Moore’s electrifying moment, we’ve achieved a renewed passion in Panthers fanbase? There wasn’t a bemoaning of being losers who stupid things always happen to, most attitudes include hope that got injected with the 62-yard TD, a beauty of a throw by PJ Walker, and Foreman’s productivity all day.

34 points! From end of third quarter, down 21-13, they displayed their most consistent playmaking all season. Marshall’s 40 yard catch-run to ten was a key play, and despite lots of flags, Panthers still finished the drive. The secondary was getting burned by Demarius Byrd on 47 yd. TD (31-28 ATL, Mariotta’s 3rd TD pass), with 2:14 to go, then CJ Henderson’s interception and 53 yard return changed the game.

A MISSED FG in OT! Some want to point blame there, but without that helmet penalty on Moore, its a cinch comeback W instead of an L – those two clutch misses would’ve never been necessary.

Voting is of infinitely greater concern

The prospects for near future mayhem and stressful times in the United (really?) States puts Moore’s bonehead move waaaay down the list of what the collective We the People should be thinking about.

As another weekend awaits, stating how I believe in the voting process is based on long term facts, two local elections worked on long ago, AMERICA writ large, and that US thing, is fact. My first vote as a 19 year old freshman was post-Nixon Watergate, as a J-major. A Boomer with Attitude, I’ll always take that responsibility seriously.

My first vote as a 19 year old freshman was post-Nixon Watergate, as a J-major. I’ll always take that responsibility seriously.

Contrast democracy as most of us have lived it, with a Wisconsin politician who proudly stated, “No Republican will ever lose an election again,” based on new proposed voting regulations. WTF?!

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/nov/02/wisconsin-republican-gubernatorial-candidate-tim-michels

Being disappointed/borderline shocked at the final result, the game itself was a good back and forth rivalry games should be. Meanwhile, the Russians have consistently rocketed utilities in the Ukraine, leaving many in the dark and cold of November. Winter approaching without Russian gas is a very real concern for most of Europe.

An American footballer took off his helmet and his team lost the game? Speaking of football, we’re taking the first round of World Cup at the Royale & Blathering in Blightsworth, right? Nobody ‘out there’ cared about it for a second.

Ron Johnson (Senator, WI), and in North Carolina, Candidate (R) Ted Budd want to eliminate the Social Security system, what this Boomer with Attitude has paid into, like MILLIONS have, their whole lives. Pres. Biden understands that basic, which seems lost on every Repub’s talking/non-talking campaigns points about ‘entitlements.’

Took bundled up Mom in her just-arrived new ‘buggy’ outside to see the lake and check foliage. Its 73 degrees today, bike ride as New Normal max affirming..

Will a woman’s right to determine what she does with her body be a MAJOR factor in stomping out ‘white guys know better’ thinking on the most elemental level in 2022 elections? You better believe it, GOP.

DJ Moore will catch more touchdown passes, one unsmart action will probably be forgiven very soon, and he’ll (almost) certainly keep his helmet on.

Perhaps, relative to a one-off event, previous (election) experience proved early and mail-in voting is legitimate and effective, and some of those many millions of already cast votes are from GOP-type people who recognize using other methods of exercising their rights.

If not, those ‘unqualified candidates’ Mr. McConnell spoke of might want to borrow that protective helmet, most deserved defeating.

Ten minutes of effort, and $50 in donations, that’s ballots not bullets America. Things figure to be as close on Tuesday as 34-34 was last week, just a lot more important going forward than what happens regarding a single athlete’s mistake.

Deliberately deciding to have NO PLATFORM to vote for, just saying INFLATION INFLATION INFLATION and threatening litigation by every election-Denier that could destabilize America another two years, I vote against that negative, irrational, non-governmental non-agenda. Sorry if your micro-economy isn’t ‘suiting’ you as well as mine. Stay strong.

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