[MFlaig]

I can certainly agree with you about being upset with people who throw mud at the wall and expect if they throw enough mud at the wall, some of it is bound to stick.

To cross that white line or step onto a field as "Blue" takes courage, dedication, loyalty to one's community and thick skin. So if you volunteer your time or get a few coins for it, you should be respected for it.

I've made more money in umpiring when I was young and could bunr the candle at both ends. That's when I could work all day, call 4-5 games 4 nights a week, then call 15-20 games in a weekend.

But I thought I was all that. I was the best - or so I thought. I was always running late, missing a sock, borrowing a cap, etc.

Now I'm older, wiser, sent my child off to college and am returning to the ranks of officiating. I believe in being on time, making sure my clothes are clean, my shoes are polished and I am ready to officiate. I'm being teamed up with the same young and wild fellow I was 15 years ago.

No matter which way you umpire, as a volunteer or as a paid one, repsecting the game, the players, the history; those are important things. That matters. When you come to the ball park as a trained umpire, you are presenting yourself as the best there is.

I don't know if anyone else has said it, but I'd like to THANK YOU for everything positive you do for your community. People like you are in short supply. Keep up the great works. They will be rewarded one day.

MF