I also know this:
PEOPLE HAVE JOBS. Umpiring is a career for very few.
Most games started in Seattle at 3:30 or 3:45. I worked until 4:30 or 5:00. I had to leave early from work or I'd arrive in the 4th inning.
I would always let my partner know if I would be arriving less than 20 minutes before game time. We also worked out plate/base responsibilities so that we could be ready as quickly as possible once I/we did arrive. Calling my partner reassured him that somebody would be coming, albeit late.
It is really easy to make fun of those who don't have the time to arrive an hour early or to spit shine their shoes beyond removing the previous day's mud on a nightly basis. But once the game starts, I want a competent partner who works hard on the field and knows what he is doing. Once the game starts, I don't give a crap if your shoes are glossy or if there is an extra wrinkle in your shirt.
The coaches don't care, either.
Rich
co-owner, UmpiresTalk
eContact, eUmpire.com,
http://www.RightSports.com