[IRISHMAFIA]

Larry, I wasn't being judgmental of anyone, simply expressing an opinion. Never stated anyone was a "bad guy" or a lesser umpire because your opinion differed. Then again, until it came to the pants, I wasn't addressing anyone in particular, just normal chatter.

I don't care for the product because it damages the leather and can create a health issue with some umpires. A health issue which attacks one of an umpire's most important assets, their feet.

I don't care for the look on the field just because I don't. I am ex-military and can put a spit shine on any shoe, but I choose not to for a couple of reasons.

When I was first assigned to a national I was told to put a military crease in the Elbeco because that is what was expected. I was told not to show up with spit shined shoes and a glossy belt because that isn't what the UICs wanted. I am a believer in uniform and apparently carried the same opinion as EA without realizing it.

If you showed up to work a tournament for me, I wouldn't do anything to embarass you, nor allow it to affect your assignments or rating. I may ask you to wear an alternative pair of shoes if some were available. I would voice my opinion to you privately and leave it at that.