[AtlUmpSteve]

Wade, I'm glad you want to restrain from making your disagreements so personal, but I think you are seriously overreacting to Mike's inquiry. I have also had conversations at ASA functions with Mike and your commish, while sharing an adult beverage in social time, in past years we asked if he knew who you were; this year at the UIC Clinic, we knew. So, we commented in the same social setting that now we knew.

Mike feels strongly about protecting the ASA name and the ASA image; as do I. If/when I think an ASA umpire is damaging ASA, or his state program, or even his local association, I consider it may be appropriate to work within channels to make sure his immediate chain of command is aware of his actions. That is where it ends; if that UIC and Commissioner approve, condone, or even simply choose to ignore, that is their call. But, they need to know what is being said or done in order to approve, condone or ignore.

We all do this for a reason; and the general population doesn't get it. It's hard enough for coaches to grasp why umpires don't agree with the coaches' perspective; it is worse when they see us with personal attacks and infighting, not just disagreeing. About a year ago, I let someone goad me into responding on several boards on a personal level; and I regret that.

I learned from it, and moved past that point. I'm glad you are ready to also; but I can also assure you (and I am positive I speak for Mike, as well) that no one here is looking to follow you or anyone else to harm your career as an umpire. Many of us on this board know each other; many have decided to meet because of this and other boards. It isn't stalking; it's interest and concern in a chosen and shared community.

Let's all move on.