As a sportswriter, I met new coach Cowens at Media Day 1996, as he sprawled across a couple folding chairs. A bit full of myself for having gotten the gig from a local magazine, I opened with, “I hated your guts when you played, because I was a Knicks fan then.” Cowens just shrugged, because he’d no doubt heard that a couple million times.
It was still one of my favorite and most accurate pieces in a long career, because the article stated if the almost totally re-configured team took on his defensive fire-intensity, it would be a vastly different season at The Hive. There was nobody cha-chaing through the lane that year, Hornets went from 41-41 (1/2 game from playoffs) to 54-28. Exit Mourning and Larry Johnson, welcome Glen Rice and Anthony Mason.
In my retail microeconomy selling suits in Mens department, I have a little speech in Spanish, to the effect that I’ve taken two courses in Spanish at CPCC, but that was 15 years ago, and I’m more about words, less sentences. Mis clientes (my customers) usually nod their heads, so I’m getting through, and the effort is obviously appreciated. I’m complimented on my pronunciation, its an affirming Goodness all around.
While talking with Coach Canales, shopping with his son Ben, I noted that a nephew of mine is a close neighbor of his, and that I’d recently written an article https://cdtalententerprises.com/2026/07/13/youll-never-go-broke-betting-on-people-gm-morgan-panthers-petersen-hornets-bring-to-charlotte/ about the new people, Attitude, and best practices that Hornets and Panthers had brought to Charlotte. I was positive that nobody should bet against the GMs (Hornets Peterson, Dan Morgan of Carolina Panthers) choices in drafts-free agency, because both teams had broken out of long losing strings- Hornets best in 25 years, Panthers (8-9) still taking the NFL South Division, pushing Rams to final 30 seconds in first round- last year. Asking Canales about handing off the play-calling to Offensive Coordinator Brad Idzik for the upcoming season, Canales said he’d worked with Idzik for seven years with three teams, and he definitely trusted they’d be on the same page.
Then I overstepped a bit, and instead of asking about those members of the press who felt his playcalling had been maybe overly-cautious at times, I sort of suggested I had a similar opinion. He shook my hand, said good talking with you, and continued his shopping.
VERY legit response for sure. Nothing crazy, and hoping my nephew doesn’t bust me too harshly on it. Cowens shrugged, customers nod, Canales walked away. Nothing so easy to accept with trump.
EVERYBODY has probably seen how trump tried to photo-bomb the awards ceremony Sunday, after Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in the finale of a great World Cup event. Millions of visitors were again wowed! by America, loving on us as friendly people and a country big and wonderful and welcoming. He’d gotten his hands on the golden trophy during initial presentation, then, with Spain grouped for a team picture, he positioned himself at far right, and brushed off a FIFA official who tried to move him out of the photo.
The worlds reaction, as noted immediately by one color commentator: “They can edit anything like that out,” which is exactly what happened at international level- bloop! Gone. No grandstanding SOB to be included on Spain’s moment. trump was loudly booed at the futbol game, and also at Madison Square Garden when he recently inserted himself into Game 3 hoopla of the Knicks championship run, blowing up a chunk of what was going to be a HUGE victory celebration because of the security presence necessary. Photos of him sleeping in a luxury box during game sure went over poorly too.
My recent and historical faux pas don’t measure up to any of his antics. That five weeks of joyous athletic achievements weren’t compromised by them, and hey, if that’s the lead story instead of masked goons killing *another* American civilian or full-scale bombing in Iran has resumed, I guess the temporary distraction was okay. That We the People can hold two Truths in our hearts, that we love a good championship event AND are still very, very, VERY aware we hate what’s wrong with a particular ‘picture’ of on-going negativity, well, November is right around the proverbial corner. LOTS of people, including this BoomerwithAttitude will be showing trump exactly how they feel.
This is what I imagine as black suit guy, not Will Smith. In reality, its a darker charcoal with light silver hatching. The hat, yeah, I get comments.
There’s no sense fighting about the number of guys asking for black suits as wrong, I’m just glad there are plenty available for proms/wedding time. We’ve actually run strong since mid-March.
For those currently in the market for buying a suit or dress-up clothes, communicating information is my long-time talent. I’ve always been a 42 Regular, 16-34/35 for shirt, more 34 than 35 waist, so its not magic to suggest things for guys based on similar size necks and shoulders.
My operating style is to put a jacket on guys for sizing purposes early. Lets see what we’re working with, then do plus-minus and options by merchandise. People often give me overviews of an event need or circumstance. Some admit its been a while between suits, which isn’t a big deal.
What do they already have, is suit maybe for upcoming interviews, that sets the scene some. Do they have any unique considerations for sport coat or suit color? Yes, IMHO, a charcoal is more flexible.
As I finished ringing up a final transaction in the dark (3x lately) because store was officially closed, the Dad who pulled the trigger on his son’s 36 Short Hugo Boss because jacket fit soooo well was proof of mission Goodness. ‘I guess we can come back another time for a shirt and tie,’ (they did) with a smile was an affirmation of my expertise and belief people appreciate my Q&A style and mission accomplished outcomes.
Immediate information from shoulders, waist, sleeve become real math regarding suit size- waist for suit pants is minus 6 of jacket (or 7 for Boss). When a jacket is involved, I’ll help you get it on v. you whirling it overhead.
Oh, you need a lighter-colored summer gray suit in two days? No problem. Its a good feeling when someone tells me a weight/sense of relief has been gained because their greatest problem was mitigated professionally. Golf-wise, alterations is a solid club to have in bag when moving along the buy-sell process. Nailed that attitude 3-4x this weekend.
A Personal Best Six Suits-Coats Sunday says Microeconomy is All Right- ‘Seasonally Adjusted Terrific’
The last three pay periods have figured out to about $28/hour, but as a BoomerwithAttitude, keeping my personal time in mornings available for lifestyle (tennis matches, bike rides, lunches, writing sessions, volunteering) beyond 33-35 hours, I’m glad to welcome Spring conditions of warmth, Carolina sunshine, and weddings. Being aware of my relative safety walking in Myers Park, living within the sound of pickleball plocks! and overall economic situation in Charlotte v. Others in many places of the world, is gratefully accepted.
Discussing choices for the guys and what upcoming Social Goodness events requires is a legitimate investment of everyone’s effort. That includes wives, girlfriends, Others.
The Oliva cigar one of sales guys provided for my handling a client coming in for choice/getting altered for blue suit is appreciated, a welcome civility of Thank you-plus. Working current retail schedule, I’m convinced I have the story-telling function of a barber regarding civility. Having gained clutch, productive employment at a time of significant upheaval, I’ve always liked providing positive outcomes, so Yay! for the weddings and prom attendees needing matching ties.
Helping someone buy a suit is a solid $$$ alternative for a semi-retired sixty-nine year old sports and Romance Writer, getting OMG! situations saved is pretty affirming overall, nailing some gnarly timing factors and getting sincere thanks, da nada.
Everyone seems to understand sub-text of what Dad meant when I quote his, “They seem to think pretty highly of themselves,” about some price tags.
Good Try-er On-ers
I’ll explain CLOSE or tight terminology for choices, especially shirts. ‘Tight’ is something you’re aware of all the time, close is how Bugachis should fit. Trim is taking most of two handfuls of cloth from waist. Too short or long at wrist is obvious, big shoulders vs. smaller waists is often in the suit equation.
Results is where communication and getting good Try-er On-ers comes through. Oh, so not 33? Try the blue pants, they’re 34s…Some say Millar is boxier, but they have lots of product to like, and space around middle area to make alterations. Lets see how 46 looks…Moving things along with yay or nay decisions for options, its always about how the jacket feels, then the math of pants.
‘Youdon’t needto move like playing volleyball, and its definitely a closer feeling because you’ve got these shoulders and guns packed in there, but NO doubt this killer Canali plaid is YOU, Alex. That shade of tan-brown slacks, crisp white shirt with dark blue buttons is great contrast. You’ve got Ferragamo’s, right?’
Cole and his Mom
Being alone as the Closer (late shift) is a great time for guys to shop. If they invest decent time in situation 1-1, or even with another person around- my history in sales and journalism is as communicator who does excellent Q&A. There’s no reason it has to be a frustrating situation to get results in.
A second customer can watch how I put a jacket on someone, or hear how I explain sizing. IMHO, acknowledge the customer, and they’ll watch how I’m taking care of someone and infer/understand they’ll get exactly the same attention. Its fine to flex a little and ask extra customers about elements that can be discussed while making decisions with Customer #1. If they go to changing rooms, you have my attention.
With Cole, knowing he was thirty pounds from his usual playing weight (baseball pitcher) of 220, the point was having a great suit to wear here and now, and surprise! an off the rack 42 Regular Hugo Boss nailed all the gentleman’s dimensions. The extra was providing two bingo! shirts that he and Mom both found excellent matches (a third not available), and taking in the slight extra in back of jacket can be done after prom.
Service aspect of shepherding someone through things goes to a mutual bottom line- those who try stuff on are sure about having the right size, so I take a lot less returns overall. We *know* these are right, he tried them on. The purple tie with lavender shirt option for Cortland’s midnight blue suit took him no extra time to decide once presented, the kicker is knowing whats worked many times before.
I’m smiling about Mom being okay with sneakers he’ll wear with suit Saturday night, because we’d collectively GSD on everything else.
Product knowledge and presentation earn trust, congratulating guys for working through different sizes and options is legit. Ending with a conversation about my years as a Little League umpire and his power pitching and upcoming season after Tommy John surgery-recovery, yeah, swapping stories with guys like a barber works for me.
Getting to final instructions about pickup- ‘and zero $ for alterations’- IMHO, that’s just best practices, a solid, bill-paying part of my microeconomy, far from Iran mess.
I’m looking forward to continuing to help everyone buying a suit, hope the Peter Millar and Jack Victor suits from Canada keep rolling, I want the best variety of suit-selling ammo for my stylish and coachable clients.
Along with MILLIONS in the streets here and around the world for No Kings! marches, we know what’s being stood up for and *against*. Flowers for Mom at Easter was about maximum color from me. Dad would make sure the nurses got something nice, so my code too. The good little extra stuff counts.
Bottom line though, Mon. I missed my $59 flight to FL on mission to help my brother, driving up to Charlotte vs. towing his Jeep behind 37′ RV at current prices was the plan. Then I left my wallet on dresser after a late pants change, no ID to get past TSA, SOL for help on driving plan in immediate future. Damn!
Yeah, I get my brother might be a little hyper about Plan A failing spectacularly (at my level), without any *actual* bombs happening, even Epstein. Its on me, nobody else dropped ordinance badly, even if a gnarly as hell mistake. I’ll try to make time in schedule after Easter. Best I can do.
Sort of like the Hornets, best they can do
Most of Southeast Division of East is jammed in same place, but overall Hornets have put up a 23-7 record since January 22, so many seasons of nothingness has generically become a terrific playoff opportunity. Call it 6th place in my book, 7:00 game with 18-57 Brooklyn tonight. Disappointing vs. 76ers and Sunday vs. Boston (114-99), they played well against New York. Playing to most recent form, including Diabate contributions, they are 16.5 pt. favorites, should get 40th win of year easily against Nets.
Consistency has become most often Good, with attaboys! for Knueppel spread everywhere, the face of franchise and very probably Rookie of the Year.
‘Your best players have to play like they are’ is the new mantra.This won’t be first or last time you’ll read that. 3/31/26 shorkknows.
Between the twin ascenstions of interest for both Hornets playoffs and Panthers selections, the obvious standard is the Expectations the Charlotte community once again has of its NFL and NBA best guys repping so well. In all cases, ‘Your best players have to play like they are’ is a new mantra, which hooks in the trio of HC Dave Canales, GM Dan Morgan, and top Panthers $$ VP Brant Tilis, and highlights how well VP Peterson has handled the Hornets personnel helm in two seasons.
LaMelo has contributed more positives and less injury time off the court this season, both serious Betters. Blending so well with the professional scorer, premier player Miller has become, with the ‘Core Four’ and Diabate have been as advertised, even though early Ws were sub-expectations. Congrats to all involved in his decision to remain with Hornets and develop as an NBA level asset, versus splitting off to (probably) make the French Olympic team.
Can we appreciate Kalkbrenner’s at the rim presence yet? Is projecting a sixth seed too high to seek? What would 41-41 get? Taking care of business remains the norm now, like during that eight-gamer that really moved the organization’s needle into Facts in Evidence, stacking done right shooting nights, offensive balance, get the loose rebounds, make passes through Knueppel. Just sayin.’
Sorry, both soccer teams are going to have to wait a bit for primo attention.
A Quality of Life Decision
Mom & Dave, chocolate donut Mothers Day, 2023.
I made the decision to move to Charlotte after coming down from upstate NY with youngest brother and son for my folks 40th anniversary in early April, 1995. They came up from Tampa. Its often called ‘Chamber of Commerce’ weather, that official Carolina blue sky, knowing pro football was coming, great family connection to land with, I arrived just after Memorial Day. Damn fine Quality of Life decision for sure.
I’ll crank out another great 15+ mile bike ride today, thinking ahead to next year, doing a sprint ironman, with a swim and 5k final run leg, instead of beating myself up about failure to carry ID and blowing up the plan. Can I say its not as critical as having lots of people on the streets, protesting like it was post-Watergate and ‘Nam 50 years ago, sincere as hell?
My weekend was special and productive sales-wise, legitimately super clear with product information to many, able to get people (mostly) on decisions about good looking suits, ties handled, beaucoup shirts. I’m way big excited about Peter Millar sportier stuff and Bugachi shirts! again in my direct domain. That $$ volume is still #1 element I consider as Success is rolling, I continue to say-feel ‘I don’t care about the bauxite for aluminum, or the soft timber for housing, just don’t screw with my getting Peter Millar & Jack Victor suits from Canada.’
Microeconomy-wise, I’m excited about Peter Millar sportier stuff and Bugachi shirts! again in my direct domain. THAT is still the #1 $$ element I consider, and continue to say, ‘I don’t care about bauxite for aluminum, nor soft timber for housing, just don’t screw with my getting Peter Millar & Jack Victor suits.’
Good thoughts for however I invest the free day (ride is callin’) I created by messing up with wallet/ID/non-brother saving into having a day to drive situation stopped cold. Nothing to say, I showed up short on every front, nope, you don’t get on the plane. If it was as straight-forward on a whole lot of other things this final day of a WILD March, would we be taking No Kings! for granted? Not me. Continuing the Minnesota Moment with happy chants of USA? YEP!
Ask Duke about accepting you lost, no matter how well things went Until or Except For.
Yes, yes, yes, its a horse race, and you get the analogy, right? Down to Sweet 16 now for March Madness, but as an event, I’ve gone 6-6 on having a great time at Queens Cup Steeplechases. was always high on my social calendar. Can’t really bet on them though...
Having sent my nephew a long video by a journalist that hits an essence of what millions fear about this nervous situation with Iran and most of the world, I’m still trying to keep personal considerations upbeat. A strong 15 mile bike ride, a 5,000 word submission for a new novel competition, joining a tennis league, doing my usual schmoozing with people who attended and appreciated our church group’s annual fish fry, buying a snappy sports coat (<$400 of 900, tracked it two weeks) in time for Easter.
No, I won’t get to participate in a third No Kings! march because I’m scheduled 10-6 at my job. Yes, there’s still a concern about the fairly constant ache in my wrist-hand, probably from a medication designed to help control cholorestol rupturing a tendon, but I’m not going to pitty-pat serves either. Yes, I’m counting on the most responsible members of our elected officials to cool out the situation bombing-wise and boots on the ground possibility.
Yes, its crazy to think its cheaper for my brother to fly me to FL on Monday so I can drive his vehicle back vs. the $$$ of gas for him to haul it behind his 37-ft. RV to Charlotte. Hey, GOP! make the deal, push on TSA $$.
Plenty of little stuff still counts
The point is, lots of stuff continues to be what’s important to each of us. Every day I offer my best efforts as a suit-selling helper to guys/couples getting ready to attend weddings, often their own. Going to work- only two miles away- means I’m going to get lots of trips from the 200 miles the gauge in Sonata shows is available. Bought $50 at $3.19/gal. (yay!)
No protest marching Saturday, and management says discussing it with customers (even if willing) is verboten, which is understandable. I walked away from the lady at fish fry who felt COVID shots were 100% straight line to her friend dying of a heart attack. IMHO, RFK, Jr. is a hazardous moron- if not for Hegs and Bondi, he’d be #1 on my list to join the unemployed roles.
Getting that 5,000 words submitted was personal, as is this blog- I haven’t done one in six weeks. Production is a specific part of considering myself a Writer. Having told customers I’ve created a schedule where I’m working 8/9:00 ‘closes’ so mornings are free for rides, writing, or lunch dates, not producing to my talent level is a poke in the ego and Someone’s eye. Those elements are about both thought leadership and my microeconomy as best practices, ok? I’m always gonna be a BoomerwithAttitude.
Still, it’s a shooting war, and being WAY short of experienced leaders after all the high-ranking military people who got canned in last year when prez and Secretary of DEFENSE (still the official title, not War) didn’t like their standing on long accepted previous US standards of conduct. MINNESOTA definitely transferred a major amount of steel to American spines by what they did in such obvious ways and conditions. Millions here and around the world- understood it took cajones, actual or philosophical. (Thanks again for that)
We all have elements to our lives we cleave to. Many complain that politics have become a concern they’d rather leave alone/forget about. ‘War is hell’ is an axiom-given, and young men, and yes, school girls, dying- be they Russian, Ukranian, Palestinian, Iranian, or American- is not good.
Commercials try to cut the use of ‘rock star’ as nonsense in comparing corporate competence to high level entertainers, yet there’s a real possibility that politics and religion become THE most incredibly decisive dividing line this country has ever seen.
While the US is considered ‘The Great Satan’ by many Muslims, would American forces be ordered to attack Iran tomorrow, when they gather in great numbers in their mosques in prayer? All other war crimes, even Hitler’s attempt to end the Jewish people, would become second tier. Apologies for ‘harshing anyone’s mellow’ here, but politics are important to me. Speaking up about the possibility of *another* (third time?) sneak attack at such a time, ‘Couldn’t happen’ isn’t a simple thought right now.
Hoops counts too, even if I’m not following ladies closely
I bemoan the loss of my own skills, iffy free throw shooting and range, meh. I hate how idea of NIL millions changing things so drastically. As an aside I wonder, could trump’s policy negatives mean the World Cup plans *doesn’t* include playing here over the next couple months.
The Sweet 16 starts tonight though, I’m off, and whether cheering at Palm Restaurant or washing dishes and doing laundry with a pizza, watching is my Tradition. Amen. 3/26/26
I watched the Duke-Siena game (71-65) that kicked off March Madness. Siena-no subs!- lead at half, surprised all by hanging mano-a-mano with mighty Duke all the way to end. Growing up, I attended Siena games pretty regularly, played pickup games with brother Dave (grad) there, listened to green V-necked sweater alumni complain ‘That’s a carry!’ when palming the ball by dribblers became part of the deal. I’m disappointed their coach will be leaving to coach at his alma mater, Syracuse, where he played with distinction.
Siena history is often about ‘cradle of coaches,’ because several have come, knocked out a couple 20-plus win seasons in MAAC, and leave for much bigger green paycheck-wise. So now players go elsewhere for the same reason, its the way of the world. Loyalty? Pssshhh.
Taking Michigan State another round on FanDuel bets? Had to do it, they bust me every time I don’t. Pitino and St. John’s? Duke taking a blast wouldn’t just make UNC fans around here happy as sin. Dick Vitale doing any game I watch- I’ll find a radio feed or watch it with sound off.
Having often quoted the great UCLA legend, John Wooden, about how the women’s game is better because they follow the plays correctly/as coached, I still have only so much bandwidth for hoops, and local Hornets are making plenty of noise at 39-35 (10th place, play in), just beat the Knicks Thursday. https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/401810918 . All the exciting NCAA finishes we’ve seen, and those to come, its part of my sports writing mental makeup to watch. Yes, UConn ladies under Gino A. are as great an example of how to play the game right as I can imagine. If they, or another top team is on when I’m back from work, great.
No, I’m not an Angel Reese fan, period. Caitlin Clark’s ‘From the logo’ commercials is amusing stuff. A Woman with solid cred and a sweet J like Obama as President, I’d probably sub them in immediately.
Panther players, HC Dave Canales, Owner David Tepper, fans are positive about ATL for a little minute, Thanks! and enjoy #4 seed at home vs. LA Rams and Matt Stafford-Puka Nacua. My first check of year means I’ve matched Social Security income; took a 22% hit on Medicaid, and a gas heating bill (655 sf/ 2 BR) was over $100 for early December, we’ll see how January works.
Yes, great tux, quality ‘tribute to Frank’ story about untied bowtie worked great.
I wore this new midnight-blue tux to work on 1/1/26 because I didn’t find anyplace to show it off NYE. Left bowtie undone, told people it was ‘tribute to Frank.’ Customer opined that “Message is you partied all night, rolled out to work in same as slept” *maybe* a shower stuff of our Younger Selves Memories. I said yes, lets go with that & Tuxedo Attitude. Fun day. Two suits to very intense entrepreneur was heck of start. Loved Landon’s ‘Not quite as tight as Connor McGregor’ standard.
“Message is you partied all night, rolled out to work in same as slept” *maybe* a showerstuff of our Younger Selves Memories. I said yes, lets go with that. Fun day. Two suits to very intense entrepreneur was heck of start. Loved his ‘Not quite as tight as Connor McGregor’ standard. 1/1/26
Air quote all you want- NFC South Division winners
Carolina Panthers 16-14 loss in constant downpour in Tampa Saturday wasn’t fatal, and yes, 8-9 is still Winners. They were sub-.500 before with 7-8-1 record during run of three division titles. All calculations come around to ‘It depends, because anything can win NFC South.’ That was true before Brady years, ATL also 8-9, catch you next year.
This Carolina Panthers team has some chops now. Obviously beat Rams earlier this year here, DC Ejiro Eviro’s defense indeed revolves around Derrick Brown’s return to middle of all the action, his sacks and pressures are relentless. Does anyone question Tre’von Moehrig’s $51M free agent salary, based on LOTS of run support (#2 on team) tackles? Rozeboom too. Rico Dowdle picked up $1 million bonus for topping 1,350 yards from scrimmage.
Yes, a quick Thanks! to Falcons. Cousins still thinks he rates a full time NFL QB role, Penix is still the plan in ATL, but Cousin’s been in right place for big contracts before. If GM Dan Morgan and VP Tilis hadn’t already picked up Year 5 of ‘Big Game Bryce’ based on higher expectations, its gonna come up. Is a substantial extension due- for core players as Panthers have notedly done all year- when ‘production’ of sub-200 ypg. and turnover free leadership, plus playoffs- earned obscene $$$, like Prescott or Drake Maye $$ will be? Baker got 3 yr/$100 mill last year…
That’s how lots of seasons end
Derrick Henry’s face when Loop’s kick went so crazy wrong, that’s how lots of seasons end. Since last years finale against ATL, when Bryce Young blew up for 5 TDs, that experience Carolina fans carried forward all season, might now be called for. Three fairly big wins- Dallas for starters, then Green Bay, Rams, plus clutch game here vs. Tampa Bay- the fannies are back. Best practices have prevailed throughout Panther organization. Sorry about Renfro.
The payoff on $20 FanDuel bets for beating 6.5 Ws and taking NFC South division weren’t huge, but still better than relative sharp stick in the eye Henry got, when Ravens previously perfect FG kicker missed a last-second attempt against Steelers that cost them AFC Central crown. Everyone’s other favorite player, Christian McCaffrey, missed another 1000-1000 season with only 924 receiving yards.
Life goes on in Charlotte, despite trumps “We’ll run Venezuela” utterances. Will there be any panic suit selling in January to disturb-juice my microeconomy? (Jack Victor-Peter Millar is from Canada, just sayin.’) I’m several hours more productive on my writing time blocks in Week 3 of work schedule; reacquiring personal goals, like anticipation of getting a 3 mi. ride on nearby Booty Loop, actually counts. Doing thirty-three hour weeks in January, I’ll continue to get my $$ share on that front, with Spring weddings and proms not so far away.
Getting a fist bump from Dad last night, because I nailed putting a 42L, charcoal-gray First Suit righteously on his enthused-at-great-suit feeling son, that still counts for me.
Two AE/PR persons from Hornets and Panthers came through shop Friday- gold BUZZ CITY jacket was tip off- before Panthers loss in rain Saturday, or now 13-23 Hornets tight 122-121 loss in Milwaukee on 1/2, a 112-99 win over the Chicago Bulls, and super-sized surprise 124-97 thumping of OKC. We discussed why ‘Loserville’ monicker may fade slowly- and gave credit to #MrTeppers$ for his other futball operation- and now productive NFL path of ‘Let football people handle the football operations’ non-meddler.
Some still want to remember him as Real Bad, but ‘back in’ vs. backed in regarding playoffs is a brighter POV. Steve Miller as an Overseer in aftermath of Venezuela is an absolute worst case for anything POV.
Hornets Still Building
Both NBA Hornets and NFL Panthers have restructured management, spent judiciously, and put strong operational people in charge- Executive VP Jeff Peterson with the Hornets, the Panthers have a well-meshed trio of super-positive HC Dave Canales-GM Dan Morgan-VP Brandt Tilis for two years. Both now feature a young core player group, unlimited by past seasons poor iterations and never sniffing of PLAYOFFS?!- say it like classic Jim Mora if you want.
The ‘Core Four’ Hornets brought to Charlotte in 2026 NBA draft was greatest shot of talent since, well, ’96-’97 team swapped almost everyone out- rights to Kobe Bryant for Vlade Divac, remember?- and new coach Dave Cowens helmed a 54-28 team. (My prediction was defensive intensity by Cowens influence and 52 wins.)
Last actual playoff year – 2016, the longest such streak in league. (OMG! even the Wizards?)
Ryan Kalkbrenner was a 4x Defensive Player of Year in Big East– Use him like that, the Rim Protector they’ve lacked since maybe Mourning, and Diabate is a quality asset, coach the heck out of him! Rookie-yet-comfortably-already-described as one of premier 3-point shooters/playmakers, Kon Knueppel is every bit as advertised re: smart player, checks all the boxes. Sion James, lets play defense because we can, very glad to see Miller at full speed. Melo- I guess we still agree to disagree about always using that ‘2022 All Star’ tag, like ‘Hall of Fame Coach Hubie Brown.’
Its ‘Big Game Bryce’ time in first rounder with Stafford and Rams, who they beat here in Charlotte mid-season https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZuPz6owCPw Somewhere between last weeks 192 yards and club record 448 yards, Young was excellent Week 13, so more TMc-Coker, Legette? several RB receivers, with their solid ground attack (116 avg.) keeping things closer to 18 ppg pace they’ve shown is legit- 10.5 points is the spread so turnovers by Rams again are at a premium. Stafford-Puka not doing high-order damage to Panthers is hopeful math. Can Ransom provide run support like Ohio State safeties should AND cover/tackle? Counting on secondary – could Horn-Puka be a showdown?
Whole lot of Derrick Brown & Panthers DEEfense! and yes, Ejiro Eviro has re-proven his defensive expertise when given the personnel. Perhaps he’ll be considered for current head coaching gigs available, but now, its the Rams. Ball control with Panthers well-regarded offensive line long play-time drives? Could that, and selectively great passing, stand up to one of NFL’s premier offenses twice? The best defense is Matt Stafford not getting extra time to sling it to productive receivers like Nakua.
The USA taking military action at this level, I almost shudder to think of Greenland, but football playoffs with Panthers is a nice difference this sunny Tuesday. Getting a fist bump from Dad because of 42L, charcoal-gray first suit that fit righteously on his enthused-at-great-suit feeling son, that still counts for me.
Compared to most of two years home alone with a screen, back on the suit-selling and chatting with many is good by me.
While knocking it out in suit-selling punctuated first week back in retail, its also super-affirming how many former customers have recognized I gave them desired great service in 2023, good to have me back.
Nothing I saw in 15 min. clip for Carolina Panthers-Saints when I got home- 5 sacks and only 81 yds. rushing by defense- despite 11 penalties, I couldn’t see how they lost. Guess you had to see the total badness, its not usual ‘We wuz robbed!’when NFL is checking things out.
In fact, it was playing for first place, NFL level defense, and Panthers still need 2-of-3 wins down the stretch. My season projection, and $20 worth of FanDuel (-450) on the proposition, 9-8 and in position to take NFC South, was a small gamble- most fans know thats often enough here.
The Carolina Panthers are looking at a Bucs sandwich now, with Seahawks between, to put down new markers. Staying over .500 is a must, Division Winner! is the organizational grail. I didn’t figure losing both games to Saints, buuuut OMG! if NFL investigation is actually happening.
I tell-remind customers they haven’t heard squadoosh about #MrTeppers$ for most of two years. Somewhere before getting the Tilis-Morgan-Canales ship moving, he paid attention to best practices advice of, “Let your football operations people do what they do.” He is not a meddler, and despite record bad 2024, Ejiro Evero back as DC is direct result. -GShork 12/16/25
Employment, Productive Microeconomy, a Sweet Writing Schedule
Having known before Thanksgiving that I’d have a good bill-paying retail job in SouthPark, I’ve commented that it was cool to be manager’s #1 draft pick when department had an opening, at least not going to Raiders. He hired me four years ago too, as COVID was ending. As previously noted, I believe the economy is way different now than ’21-’22.
As a career salesperson and journalist-Writer, my communications skills are A-1 and flexible. I’ve always been killer determining what people want-need in helpful manner- I get paid on how well I accomplish that. Working the closing schedule (2-9:30), I can automatically schedule two to four hour blocks for writing weekly, go for bike rides on 3 mi. Booty Loop nearby, grocery shop, and have lunch meetings- its two miles to work!
That ‘opportunity’ came directly to me, unsolicited, as straight a bolt of good fortune as this 68 yr. old BoomerwithAttitude and Romance Writer could’ve imagined.
Reading regular negatives in LinkedIn about ageism (obviously true) and just how lousy the job market ’24-’25 is for grads, getting a re-do after my ‘doing something else’ post-COVID decision in ’23, thanks, I’ll take it.
Lucky? I maintain highly qualified- you’ll appreciate the difference. I am king of the Hugo Boss blue suit, appreciate the Jack Victor and Canali lines, and will discuss the difference between a sports coat and an $875 unstructured jacket if you don’t already know.
I cheered for the gent who tried on, literally, every blue-tinged jacket in the department, *except* a reddish-purple blue one, just said, No. ‘No, what?’ wifey asked. ‘No, honey?’ cracked me up. All agreed a beauty of a jacket, but he had no interest.
Guys who say yay or nay, great when they try things on. A younger, maybe thirty guy becoming CEO of a company after selling two previous ones, really wanted an image suit. Does he know how to pull the trigger when shown the goods? You betcha.
Right now, its like Maverick’s ‘target rich environment.’ Oh, open till 10:00…
Am I insulated from what’s about to be a tougher microeconomy for many? I know there’s a 22% hack in my Medicaid starting in January, but I’m effectively earning about $30/hr. on two weeks this first pay period; I’m effectively doubling my Social Security income. I still have $151 of SNAP benefits, which I really needed this time last year.
I try to keep a bag of groceries in the car for less fortunate Others, even some frozen meat, but no Pampers. Never let it be said you’ve done less than the least possible when its crunch time. When tossing a couple bucks, I believe $3 is way better than 2.
I stand strong on being a BoomerwithAttitude, and since the boost I felt as a Precinct Judge (D) on Nov. 4, and whats happened across the country until now, I’m still confident in my microeconomy, my democracy, and those Carolina Panthers grading solid B+.
The pen is a classic because I made it with Dad in Tampa long ago. I still chuckle at his ‘worst ever worked with’ assessment- I got the ultimate one-off souvenir I wanted.
Something short and pithy needs to be said about changes to Charlotte lifestyle in three weeks- this probably isn’t that. This is All Souls Day Nov. 1st, with all of Kirk’s great front yard cemetery stuff already put away. Man was giving away FULL SIZE chocolate bars! Loads of kids coming by to TorT, and legend tells of possible adult beverages. Beyond a tall, talking witch robot, and grabbing a full-size bag of M&M peanuts, the highlight was a LARGE, noisy-active, mobile! spider that young Batman *really* didn’t like.
Reality of Halloweenfire pit with a dozen adults on next street over – I opined ‘we wouldn’t be seeing any tear gas in Myers Park’ during chat about Border Patrol coming- it didn’t mean *something* couldn’t happen. A major duplex other end of block, and another biggie build on nearby Forest Dr. E.- no workers since Saturday. Just sayin.’
Yes, two weeks from ‘Hey, Mr. Shorkey…!’ I’m waiting (decently) patiently for paperwork to clear, so I can get trained and back in the groove in the Men’s Suits Dept. at Nordstrom’s. Several years ago I was an expert reporter on microeconomy from there, using my unique POV to judge the rebound from COVID-19 ravages by how many wedding suits, proms, and renewal of general business suit buying I handled in ’21-’22. I’m going to do that again starting shortly.
My first vaxx was March 18, 2021. Coming back from grocery store, I went into a Novant location at top of my street, a supervisor said, “Lets get you stuck,” when I was officially Cat. 5 (not 65) in NC. Twenty-six minutes from parked car to back to house, how could I ever feel closer to being guaranteed of living? 97% efficacy, meaning it walks the talk about being super-effective, at the time I called it the greatest service imaginable.
For more than six-eight months at Nordstrom from Fall ’21, all employees wore masks, most of the customers did too. We were aware of personal distance, in an industry when/where trust was at a premium. I mostly wore one, though in an empty dept, I went without. I left retail in 2023, the great awakening or whatever, dissatisfaction with all previous norms vs. feeling Special.
I use that Attitude in lead chapter to non-fiction, half-finished, projected $2.99 wisdom online book (working title) ‘DGUYDJ: Don’t Give up Your Day Job,’ which is what *everyone* tells you/any other dreamer along the way. The ‘Welcome to the Real World’ 15 pc. Graduation card-puzzle I’ve got going on Etsy, that’s going to be killer for $8.95 (+ $2 shipping) this spring. Yes, work the microeconomy people.
I’m 5x vaxxed now, and 100% as thankful a particular previous manager left *two* VM while I was in Durham last weekend, doing a quantity of Fall earth-moving and hacking down with old friends (Kim insists on livable wage, $300 for 11 hrs. all projects done spit-spot), about landing in a Men’s Suit dept. opportunity. And now I’m waiting for the paperwork and timing for training, with the hugest retail time of the year at hand.
FYI- As someone whose role is to help people get what they want, I am excellent at determining what that is. Being of service 1:1, I appreciate Maverick’s line about new ‘target rich environment.’
Really good salespeople don’t forget service aspect
Really good salespeople don’t forget that customer service aspect. Until someone signs, or slides a card, you are suit selling to get paid, but IMHO, I’m less an hourly guy, more a professional, hanging skins on the wall with satisfied people guy for foreseeable future. I’m literally going to be the closer, meaning late shift.
Okay, its a bathroom shot, but Hugo Boss blue me & fedora wound up $1200 ahead at blackjack. Still calling it skill, but closer to lucky than this clutch Job Offer.
During post-COVID ’22, I did plenty of business in last hour, even last 20 minutes of shift. Often guys were just taking a shot coming by, weren’t sure anyone would be available to help. I’m going to rate current state of affairs as much more positive than back then. Manager said dept. is half-million ahead of budget, I like my chance$, will mention gratitude feelings next Thursday.
Lucky? Supremely qualified is more accurate. Thankful? Like the Carolina Panthers to be on righteous side of .500 and looking for the REALLY Good Things to keep happening. A Monday Night game against 49ers? Hooo-boy! Better get our groups Christmas trees unloaded FAST. The Panthers defense should know to buckle up tight with CMC in town.
Right place and Time
People know LOTS of items might not be available, almost certainly more expensive everywhere for obvious reasons. What I’ve seen in department visits seems a little pricey compared to Oct. ’23 (when I tried self-employment again), but apparently $795 for unstructured-no shoulder pads sports coats is very much where things are in late ‘2025. Suits over $1,000, Canali will be more, younger All Saints stuff in Suits area might surprise. I’m betting its still a great alterations group, we should charge more for really tight turnarounds.
Springsteen moans about the feeling of Why me/them? for living through bad times like ‘Nam- back in Suits isn’t that dramatic. The retail industry has manpower challenges in this economy, but I *was* #1 rated guy for same situation last year, when they didn’t add anyone during usual Fall-Christmas time. Appreciating how a specific manager has me ranked as #1 pick based on best practices, its not the NFL, but at least its not Cleveland.
I’m still a BoomerwithAttitude. While I hunkered down a little during early reign of relative presidential terror in America, marched twice, and took a 22% Medicaid cut, at 68 I’ve got a regular paycheck on the way, and while SNAP was necessary last year, I can buy those more expensive groceries, even periodically get a bag together in car to provide for others- as an individual whose been there. Vaxxed, check with a comma, threat of homeless handled well – a Great Suit Feel to end of 2021
lol Did I recently make any promises regarding this? Well, my criteria for making changes went beyond just cashing a 4-legger on FanDuel, I’ll tell you that. Didn’t anticipate Bryce Young slinging it all over the stadium, but I was sure taking any points to back Panthers, and WHOW! Don’t overlook the obvious (or promised) when Good-er Times show up, right?
Yep, its a different ‘tude in Charlotte- definitely not liking thug aspect of Border Patrol, guys wearing masks we like have Carolina Panthers logos.
While I still like ‘Smarter than the average bear Writer’ as a brand, I will watch the checks stack up in the bank and call it Righteous. You the Man, Marquelle.
#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.
This is the most legitimate time to put one of those forever memorable pictures on display. I’ll probably put a Christmas ‘display’ vs. just a tree next time.
Assuming fellow Panthers game watchers saw the same plays, with QB Bryce Young getting whacked *twice* as he got off successful passes to Tommy Tremble and a drop in the bucket TD to David Moore, I was smiling myself when he peeled himself off the turf, and pretty much laughed about it to one of his linemen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZgXMwYy5fE
When you make a mistake on throws, like Arizona Cardinal QB Kyler Murray did on an interception (after being past the line of scrimmage), you hang your head on the bench. When you’ve done enough good work that smiling a lot after a heavy lick comes naturally again, that is Bryce now, not a colossal failure some painted him when the 2021 Heisman winner joined a team with very little talent, taking 62 sacks along the way to 2-15 record.
That said, the best thing beside Chuba Hubbard going for 25/152 yards and a pair of TDs (one the OT winner) was Cardinal RB James Conner being injured in 3rd period and not continuing his rampage, which ended after 15/117 yds/TD, plus 4 catches for 49 yds.
I said exactly that (technically, just ‘whew!’ as he stood on sidelines) when Cards scored last 10 pts. of regulation to tie things up. Conner is a beast, and it seems *everyone* they play is capable of carrying a couple Panthers tacklers for 6-12 more yards after contact.
Panthers GM Dan Morgan can fix that in off-season, right? Ahhhh, expectations!
HELL YES! on Bryce’s running (Chuba even more so)
Anyone who questioned Chuba receiving a four year, $33MM contract a couple weeks ago, who wonders why a team with their won-lot record is rewarding anyone, they couldn’t have been watching many games. Hubbard had 250 carries for 920 yds/5 TDs during last year’s disaster, and now has 1195 yards and 10 touchdowns. That’s a humble producer you want to keep happy, and it sends a signal league-wide about doing and deserving. Same with kicker Eddie Pinero, who missed a PAT in the game, but has also had a season (21/24) worth rewarding.
Panthers two early TDs were on 70-yard drives, and the ball control aspect of Hubbard’s running used up plenty of clock this year. 6’6”, 330-pound free agent guard Robert Hunt, and LG Damien Lewis proved to be $$$ well spent, as offensive line has been a strength when everyone else got injured.
The joy of watching Young take off for an untouched 34-yard jaunt early, then take off again for 23 yards and a touchdown was wonderful after seeing him steadily being beaten on for two seasons. As color commentator Mark Schlereth noted, when everyone’s back is to you in 1-1 coverage, you can pick up a lot of yardage. Panthers kept Kyler Murray in check (8 carries/63 yards) by clogging the middle so he didn’t escape upfield like Bryce.
Yes, it’s good to see plays work as needed. There was a flag next to spot where Hubbard made a block to keep a defender off Young on TD run, but penalty turned out to be on defender, so un-standard Panthers luck. Young scored early in first period in a small front corner of end zone, exactly where Moore caught his touchdown in 4th period, barely a foot from the boundary, with a defender draped across his back.
Those plays were an elemental difference from a LOT of Panthers experiences in 2024. (ie.- Thielen’s catch in end zone denied vs. Bucs, best defensive player Derrick Brown gone after first game, Diontae J.)
Yes, it would have been great to see what Brooks could’ve contributed, now he’s a project for 2025, good thoughts sent for another tough rehabilitation program on ACL that failed.
Bucs, Atlanta on the road, end of 2024
The Buccaneers played well against the Cowboys Sunday night in a 26-24 loss, leaving Atlanta and Tampa Bay tied with 8-7 records for the NFC South leadership. Charlotte may enjoy a spoiler role in who makes the playoffs, because Panthers play Tampa Bay this week, Atlanta to end the season Jan. 5th.
Michael Penix, Jr., the Washington Huskie QB Atlanta surprisingly selected at #8 in 2024 draft, has taken over for Kirk Cousins, and the lefty-slinger put up a solid 18/27, 202 yds/1 INT line that satisfied many, though fans had expected more from the $160 million ($100MM guaranteed) money Cousins got. Achilles surgery last year left him less capable of moving well on play action passes that were his bread and butter, but his career has been profitable and productive.
If Sam Darnold might be leaving Minnesota because he’ll want BIG $$$ (Mayfield got 3 yrs/$100MM after a season of Dave Canales ‘QB Whisperer’ in Tampa) after taking Vikings to 13-2 and tied with Detroit Lions for division lead, they’ll decide in last game of year. Cousins is not in that same space any more.
Will Panthers make it a three-game win streak to end the season? That would give them 6 for the year, beating the experts 5.5 predictions. (FYI – +600 I’ve previously mentioned is based on $100 bet, I’m only betting $20, so better beer in my microeconomy, not champagne, would be the celebration v. 20 x 600 craziness)
Let’s just say that Panthers are nowhere near the laughingstock-worst team in the NFL they were labelled most of last two seasons.
Panthers, Bears, Jets are 4-12 (Well, 4-11 Bears play Seahawks TH) What a disappointment *that* team was with Caleb Williams! Rookie QBs, who knew they aren’t all world-beaters? Maybe someone in Chicago should take a beating for shoveling Justin Fields onto the garbage heap (well, traded to Pittsburgh) because he didn’t make progress there as an NFL QB despite terrific physical skills.
Patriots, Raiders, Browns, Jags, Titans are all 3-12, Giants are 2-13, so there are nine other (of 32) teams in same or worse shape than Panthers. How’s THAT for something to put a little kick in your holiday eggnog?
Different Blue coming soon at Nordy’s again (or an ExecAsst?) Hugo Boss jacket, Black buttonless tuxedo shirt, bow tie.
Beyond Green-egged pork loin and terrific wine for Thursday night football, to getting brother Mike and dogs back out to Denver Tues., and sun directly in the eyes for 9 & 11:00 double header both Saturdays, I’ve enjoyed the #AmericanFamilyExperience that recreation league baseball embodies.
Call it extra grocery $$, my POV is, at 67 I make a difference- and getting thwapped! three times Sat.,like never before in 4 years, I affirm I can still take it.
This fall season has been a terrific reprieve from worrying about politics in the everywhere else. We three brothers enjoyed terrific dinner and 49ers game, and Monday, when brother, RV and dogs was supposed to leave, engine consideration requiring a lift back from Charlotte shop, having breakfast while picking up his Jeep Tues. a.m. was a great opportunity to extend-repay any number of times such a courtesy is done with family. Just a ride maybe, but a clutch ride, and he gassed me up. ‘Nuff said.
Football, and no political POVs worked well with Thursdays wine, I saved those worries till breakfast with good hash browns, crisp bacon, and plenty of java before Tues. g’byes to Mike and beagles. I’ve been working on good karma every night, thank you American Family Experience.
Getting Thwapped! means a Meat hit
My usual credo is ‘If you heard it hit me, that’s not really a problem.’ Then I took a 10 year old’s foul tip straight in the chest area between top of plastic chest protector and bottom of mask. Coming to screen afterwards, one Mom smiled, ‘I know you say that, but I *heard* that one.’ And most recognized I *must* have just missed a nutter a little later.
10-19-24 Field #3 – Karma might have listened too close about historically, my not having been hit squarely- I got a tingle for sure. I still consider that ‘best practices.’ Cool when crowd works with my chatting along, I’m recognized at OP fields after plenty of games there over last month.
Most of a Dozen Shots from Being a Blue
I’ll continue to praise the LL baseball environment as American Family Experience, especially the weekends (9, 11:00) and coolish nights lately, what it means to those ballers of whatever skill, to try implementing advice you offer while they’re at bat. Solid gold encouragement for sure. Having given my card to one well-chilled Dad on Wed. night, I promised to share my POV joy a little about that experience here.
Call it extra grocery $$, Umpiring is a really difficult option to beat, great atmosphere at $60 for two hours and change. Travel teams and five games a day stress, stopped that gig two years ago. Rec league teams, first season after coach pitch, sometimes 10-12-13s. Hey, somebody turned in the cleats I left behind after Mon. night game in time for this weekend, so I’m glad about that too. Last Saturday I wore dress shoes! instead of sneakers while doing the plate. Knew it’d make a good little story.
Sometimes I use one of Dad’s old tees to dust off plate, tell people ‘I have a brush, just trying to keep Dad involved.’ They tell you as an Umpire not to talk with people behind fence, one call and you could turn bad on you, but I admit to being a yakker. If not you, I’ll talk to people over there, no problem pal.
My top thought bringer was a pretty excited young shortstop, telling me he might get to pitch the 3rd inning (which he does). Turns out coach I mentioned youngsters excitement to was Dad, who admitted, “If I told him definitely, you wouldn’t be able to catch his attention for anything else, no way.”
He showed no great talent, spraying balls to the backstop while other team turned walks into runs with constant stealing. This maybe 4,’ cap-askew kid, just got back on the mound and threw another one. What determination, getting to rubber, turn, fire! for most of five runs or all the way through lineup, whatever their league rule was. Max enthusiasm, great coaching attitude, real glad I wasn’t on the plate was important to overall Satisfaction.
Have to state I won $68 Saturday for college football picks on Fanduel. Part of my expertise when writing football should be followed up on. If 49ers had converted 2-pt. after last TD (48 total pts.), I would have done that again (Over was 47.5 as part of 4-legger, incl. Ravens game). Just sayin.’ Yay! for my microeconomy.
Genuine appreciation
You betcha, the Genuine Appreciation by parents, patrons, players, the elemental interfacing after hours of my mostly remote work production, is personally enriching. Soooo many positives, thank yous from parents watching, the kids who want to tap fists, I’m doing a little part for that American Family Experience. I traded some group snack cheese puffs for 2 pieces of gum. Telling one group ‘this catcher is really up close to batters’ two pitches before a batter knocks his glove loose for being that close, they know I’m working knowledgably. VERY little second-guessing, I’m known to be solid on strikes, including the down and away every coach wants THEIR pitcher to get.
The catcher-son of a gentleman I’ve spoken with 4-5x was in front of me Saturday, and I noted his positioning with Dad after an inning, sort of hanging off outer third, and he said hasn’t really told him where, more about close when son felt comfortable. Pitchers typically nibble outside a target was a POV I offered him, keeping catcher centered vs. past white lines results in lot of balls while yes, producing sucker swings. Its a great gentlemans meeting of minds, helping kids in a real way.
I prefer to have them positioned between me and unreliable 10 year old arms and persons with a bat, also a safety issue, y’know? Guy hooked other ump and myself up with post-game cheeseburgers my first time at Olde Providence. Just sayin’.
Thats been my CDTalent Enterprises mantra/extended purpose over 4+ years. Beyond balls and strikes, little things to coaches, often they might already know, but seeing something detrimental to ‘fix,’ I’m up for contributing that. Especially pitchers. Catchers – Don’t pose, I saw where you caught it, then where you moved it to.
Catchers cheating
I’ve been asking crowd about catchers cheating a little recently, few knew what framing truly meant – but I’m talking MOVING a pitch. Whether they’ve grabbed a mitt of dirt low or stopped a sky-high wild one, catchers will present the result as close to middle of the zone as possible. Pitchers and YOU, the crowd, often wonder, ‘Why isn’t he calling strikes?’ because glove is right there. That’s what I get the big $$ for.
After calling a higher than usual strike, and hearing ‘I don’t think so,’ from batter, I looked at the young man while brushing a ton of sand off the plate. “It will never be to your advantage to have me hear something like that,” I told him.
One kid moved his elbow a minimal amount and managed to get clipped, sent to first. I saw what happened, but declined to call the violation of not trying to avoid – and one person’s voice asked if thats what had happened – but hit batter was my decision. I went to dugout after half-inning, and told the batter I saw the play, let it go because a good kind of slick move. HAVE to appreciate the art of the subtle move, from Reggie Jackson’s hip in World Series to *every*single*catcher* trained to frame/move pitches to steal a strike call. I’ll have to tell Scott Grayman, he always advocated the pinch and ‘Look where it hit me!’ approach.
Slinging bats, obstruction
Sometimes league rules codify a first warning for bad bat action, I might give two for a team – coaches are generally very good with followup to warnings. One safety and game situation I take charge of is plays at the plate, because everyone runs on passed balls, runners from third sliding in with pitcher hopefully covering at plate, Out! or safe is a regular event.
Getting bats and batters out of the way, telling catchers ‘Move the bat away from plate’ before ball might still be in play, helps a young catcher. I enlightened some patrons about kids getting tagged out at plate, because there is often a ridge in right hand batters box, noticeably dug down in middle, but solid clay perhaps 6″ from plate that often stops slides. Fun fact to know and tell.
I ended first game Saturday on obstruction call – one more time the batter froze in box after a wild pitch, and kid from 3rd coming. Catcher dove around batter, couldn’t flip to pitcher, so had to say Obstruction, winning run scores. Everyone was thrilled at finale, thats what makes it such a cultural binder. Line it up! Congrats all around, kids they know from school.
I’ve only called two out for slinging this fall season (many leagues actually say out of game), because I let everyone know at plate meeting, its a safety issue I can control. One previous coach said I traumatized his pitcher because I yelled, “DONT THROW IT!” as he was stepping into his delivery and I didn’t have my mask on. Most pitchers are ready to go pretty quick, so its talk to the hand time. Take an extra couple seconds to instill safety aspect, isn’t a bad thing. Yes, next batter, if teammate left bat after a hit, pick it up.
I often say this tongue in cheek, ‘You don’t reward stupid,’ because when kid on 2nd keeps stretching his lead, Dad was saying more, more, the pitcher gets signal when he’s too far. Ooops! Yeah Austin, gotcha at second. Same with trying for a triple instead of just a double- Close, but out! (shouldn’t have done that).
I worked with a first time, real game Blue one game, been doing Machine Pitch. He didn’t know signal for infield fly rule (a 0 or 1 out finger at top of mask). He called a balk though. Attaboy! Overruled him/provided help on a call at first.
A Coach wasn’t going with idea his pitcher plunked the batter on wrist, kept saying, “He was swinging!” No coach, he was backing away, and from part way between 1st- 2nd, I saw *exactly* what happened. He.plunked.the.batter.
Getting hit in thigh, ball breezing between thighs a little low, taking an exclamation point! foul tip straight in the chest- an event that surprised but didn’t hurt me- and that tingler, well, still two more games this week. Another check before Election Day (and rent) is a Good Thing, and then comes Thanksgiving and group Christmas tree sales.
Doing what I can
Even if you’re the center fielder who stuck their glove out, and the good hit the batter thought he had, somehow wound up in your previously never-caught-a-thing kids mitt and all rejoiced, we have to affirm what we know is right, not just get lucky, on Election Day.
Little League, cheeseburgers, Carolina nice weather, Democracy, ballot not bullet, #BoomerwithAttitude, a little showmanship on a called third strike, between my Umpire Wisdom-wise Blue (and Precinct Judge (D) attitude), lets say I don’t think this country will take a called third strike, bat on their shoulder attitude regarding this most important event of 2024.
I need actual replacement cleats for my golf shoes, but Dodgers – Yankees in the World Series, what more could any kind of fan honestly ask for?
Oh, I’m 30 pages into non-fiction piece book, ‘I’m A Creative, Determined, Talented Writer’ (& Don’t Quit Your Day Job is Often Decent Advice).
CDTalent Enterprises 