Mama Said Knock You Out

Mary brought up the subject of having the gym closed after the spring session ends next Friday. "The coach's position is not yet listed online, and I'm not signing up any new people. I don't want people to be upset if they begin the summer session and there's no coach present," she said. Dealing with the real possibility of irate customers wanting their money back in that case is something the Loyola Park staff doesn't want to deal with. I don't blame them.

Mary and I will discuss plans regarding having the adult boxing gym open further next week. My original thought was to not have the gym open that week in-between the end of the spring session and the beginning of the summer session to keep looky-loos from just roaming into the place. It is now making a lot of sense to me to have the place closed temporarily until a new coach is in place. Of course, the kids' gym time on Tuesdays and Thursdays will continue as usual.

She told me that "the intense guy" had arrived at the gym before I had, and was hanging out in the basketball gym. Mary didn't remember his name, but I knew instantly that it was Jordan. "His name is not on the class list. He didn't sign up for this session," I said.

Mary left shortly afterwards, and I turned on the bell. As I was heading towards the radio, I heard footsteps on the stairs outside of the gym. I sighed and turned around to see Jordan. His hair was jacked up. Why he had a portion of it tied up with a rubber band was a mystery to me. "Where's Steve?" he asked in his usual clueless manner. "He resigned a couple of weeks ago," I said in my best cold business-like voice. Jordan, like everyone else, had been told months ago that Steve would be gone now. "I'll be in next Wednesday and Friday," he said. Don't do me any favors, I thought, as I turned my back on Jordan and turned the radio on. He didn't have any workout gear or clothes with him, so I thought he would leave.

"Who's coaching?" he asked. "No one," I said, not feeling the need to explain to him that I was temporarily in charge of watching the gym. Fortunately, Carla and Deb came in, so I could justify ignorning him. Unfortunately, Jordan is one of those guys that doesn't take hints because he doesn't have the brain power to realize when one has been given to him. "Who else is coming in?" he asked. Do I look like a psychic? I thought. Out loud I replied, "I have no idea, Jordan, until they come in here." He was probably looking for JJ and/or Mike to show up. Or any guy, for that matter, so he could brag about what he doesn't know.

Jordan was hitting the smaller heavy bag with no gloves on. "You shouldn't hit the bags without gloves on," I said, repeating something that Steve had told him many times. Jordan stops and gives me this -- attitude -- looking at me like I was some bug that he needed to swat away. He mumbled something about "it doesn't matter". In that second, I wanted to pick up something and knock his ass out in the middle of the floor.

He went back to hitting the bag, but I wasn't going to let it go. "Look, Jordan, that bag is practically brand new. Don't mess it up by hitting it with your bare hands!" I forcefully told him. I didn't give a damn if he didn't care about hurting his hands, but he was going to at least have some respect for the equipment. I got the feeling that he acted like the place was his personal gym. Just before this exchange, he asked to have the radio changed from V103 (an adult urban contemporary station) to B96 (a top-40 station). Usually, I had no comment about the music most of the guys liked to hear while in the gym. I don't normally listen to what they like when I'm not at the gym. It really wasn't worth me arguing with Jordan about it, so I changed the station. But I did tell him, "There, I put it on your crappy station."

He asked Carla to help him figure out his weight on the scale near the mirrors. The scale is not hard to figure out, but then this is Jordan we're talking about. I doubt that he was an honor student in school.

Seeing how he failed to intimidate me and the fact that none of the guys came in, caused Jordan to give it up for the evening. He left like he always does, with no acknowledgement of who is in the room. I immediately changed the radio station.

Possible New Recruit

Martha is a crossing guard that I see most weekday mornings on my way to the temporary custodian job at my church. She saw me with a Golden Gloves hoodie on, and inquired if I boxed. I told her that I go to Loyola Park, and she was interested. "I need to tone up," she told me. I gave her info about when the summer session will begin. "Don't sign for spring, because that session is almost over, and the Park District won't give you a discount because of that. You'll have to pay the full fee, then pay another full fee for summer," I told her.

Keith strolled in on Wednesday night, asking where Steve was. I know Steve told him he was going to resign. Perhaps Keith forgot. He hung around for awhile, then left. Deb, Carla, Paul and myself were the only ones in the gym until Jermaine came in later.

Earlier on Thursday, while riding the 'L home, I ran into Arin, who hasn't been in the gym in weeks. She said she would try to make it back in.

I think I'm going to suggest to Mary that the gym should be closed during that week in-between the spring and summer sessions. My goal is to keep characters from roaming in, looking for a free workout. Once June rolls in, activities in the fieldhouse increase, meaning more people hanging around. If no coach is hired by the time the summer session starts, then the week off would be a good time for me to come up with an interim lesson plan for the newcomers.

Learned that Brian hurt more than his thumb sparring the other week. Paul told me that Brian's hand had been broken in two places. I hope it heals up soon.

Open Later

When I got to the fieldhouse, Rob had to call Mary to come by with a key to open the gym. Jilberto has a key to the gym, but he doesn't work at the fieldhouse on Friday. When Mary arrived, I told her I doubted that anyone would show up. It was the Friday before a holiday weekend, and normally, attendance is low. I had a CD of music I downloaded from iTunes, so I put it on.

Foster came in about 10 minutes later. He's proven himself to be very consistent so far. He comes in and does a pretty consise workout routine.

BK, one of the staff members, came in and talked for awhile. He told me he has plans to open up a few businesses down the line. It's interesting to learn about people's future plans to even be more successful. BK always struck me as being a thoughtful, serious sort, so I wasn't exactly surprised when he told me about his plans.

Foster and I were the only two for a while until Manny came in. I hadn't seen him for awhile. Manny had been training at Clarendon Park, but he explained that not much has been going on down there. He plans to come to Loyola Park on Fridays to get a workout in. Manny wants to get a few Park District boxing show fights during the summer. I haven't seen a schedule for those shows yet, but one should be out soon.

Jermaine was the last one who came in for the evening. I quit working out around 8:30 PM, but kept the place open an extra 15 to 20 minutes for him and Manny, who came in later. Manny, like Barry, suggested that I apply for Steve's old job. Even Jermaine was saying that it would be a good idea for me to do so to keep the gym going. Mary told me earlier that the job still hadn't been posted online, but she'll let me know when it is.

Right Out Of The Gate

Brian was there when I arrived at the gym. Foster came in not long afterwards, followed by JJ and his new coach, Gio, then Tommy and Ben. None of the other women came in.

JJ had a tape of the fight he lost at the National Golden Gloves. It was just as he said before. His opponent came tearing at him right out of the gate. JJ ended up getting two eight counts in the first round. We all groaned when the camera didn't catch all of the action. Barry taped the fight, but didn't always keep the lens focused on the action in the gym. We were treated to a nice shot of Steve's wife Ellen, who had Eli sitting on her lap. At her prompting, Eli waved to the camera.

JJ sparred a couple of round with Foster and with Brian, with Gio and I looking on. Brian hurt his thumb during the second round with JJ and couldn't continue with his workout that evening. I don't think any bone was broken, but his thumb was swollen. Brian said his girlfriend is a nurse, so he would check with her about his thumb tomorrow. I told him to ice it up this evening. JJ and Gio left not too long after the sparring sessions were over.

I was very tired and sluggish, but I perked up a bit when I got into the ring to shadow box. My new medical ID came in the other day; I now have a couple of necklaces, one of them being a backup in case I lose the first one. I remembered to wear my volunteer badge, too. Now that the gym is in-between coaches, I thought it would be a good idea to wear that ID.

Gym Showcase

Mary left a voice mail for me earlier in the afternoon. The person who was supposed the sing the National Anthem for the annual Gym Showcase couldn't make it in. She asked if I could perform the song. I called her back and assured her that I would.

Barry had two of the boys in the youth boxing program, Nate Jr. and Kenneth, do some exercise routines for their portion of the showcase. I hadn't seen Nate Jr. do his fancy jump rope techniques before; he was good. Kenneth is a new boxer, a long, lanky quiet kid. Like Nate Jr. he also demonstrated his technique on the punch mitts for the crowd.

"I'm glad you're here," Barry told me when we came back inside the gym after the performance. "Most people wouldn't want to train on a Friday night. It takes a special individual to come in here on a Friday." I like going to the gym. Besides, what else am I doing on Friday night? Ask most unattached middle-aged women -- unless she's a cougar chasing down young men in the clubs, the dating scene is pretty slow. If I had a boyfriend, he'd have to wait to see me after I came out of the gym, anyway. First things first.

Barry and the boys left after a light workout. Attendance among the adults was very light again this evening. Only Sadiq, Carla and Foster were there. "Why weren't many people here?" Sadiq asked after we were the last two in the gym. "It's nice outside, it's Friday night, there's the Gym Showcase going on, Steve's not here anymore," I answered. Robert took a little break from his work to look in on the gym, and he noted the small amount of people inside. I told him, "The numbers will pick up again when a new coach is hired."

Just as I suspected a couple of days ago, I have picked up weight again. Ten pounds of the 20 I lost have returned. Damn. . .I know it is because of what I've been eating, and the lack of doing extra exercise during the week. It's my fault. I was looking at the DLife web site and learned that actor Jerry Mathers ("Leave It To Beaver") was diagnosed with diabetes when he was 50. He controls it with diet and exercise. I keep thinking about the complications I could develop because I'm not as diligent in controlling my weight as I think I am. If Mathers could take weight off and get it together, than I can too. I have to do it.

Pizza In The Gym

Mary and I were talking not long after I arrived at the fieldhouse. She wondered if Steve was going to come in tonight. She wanted to hold off on ordering pizza for the farewell get-together until he got there. He came in just as we were talking about him.

Steve cleaned out his locker, and found some notes that he had taken a few years ago on JJ and Mike. He gave both of them what he wrote. We got a good laugh out of those. Anarbo, from Brooks Park, was there, and Steve gave him some extra gauze that he found.

The gym was busy when the pizza arrived. I had Gilberto bring the food into the gym. He set the table up in the middle of the floor, and then it was moved towards the lockers to give people room to still work out. Gio, the trainer JJ is going to next, was there. Tommy, Carla, Ben, Jon, Foster and Brian were there, as was a friend of Arnarbo's (I hope I'm spelling his name right!). Even Sadiq and Mort (along with his girlfriend) came in.

I didn't touch any of the pop (no diet pop was ordered), but I ate more of the Giordano's pizza than I should have. It feels like the 20 pounds I lost are slowing creeping back up on me, judging by my thighs. Steve said he found a gym in Buffalo, NY where he could work out. "It'll be nice to get back in shape again. I figure I'd better do it because I'll be 40 years old in awhile, and it'll be harder to keep the weight down," he said. "Tell me about it. The weight just seems to stay on and never come off," I said. Many days, I feel like I inherited my late dad's blubbery physique. I used to be petite like my mom, but that was 21 years ago. I believe those days are gone. The best thing I can hope for is to be healthy.

Jon's thigh was better. It had been bothering him, and he had to ice it a lot. He asked me if my leg was better. My knees remain stiff, and my left foot is swollen again (I think that's a condition of hypertension), but I'm okay. Margaret, the choir director at my church, told me the cleaning I do at church in the mornings serves as a functional workout. Perhaps that's why I was so sore last week. I haven't been working out much outside of the gym because the temporary custodial job is a workout in and of itself, and it wears me out. But I have to get back to regular exercise, especially now that warmer weather is coming.

Soreness, Slowness, Sad News

Barry called me last night. JJ lost a close fight at the National Golden Gloves, so he's out. According to Steve, it was a close decision, but the other fighter was very good. I hope this doens't discourage JJ from his plans to go pro next year.

Barry also told me he found the gym door open on Thursday. I told both Mary and Gilberto when everyone was gone Wednesday night, so I don't know what happened there. I don't have a key, since I'm not a Park District employee. I have to depend on staff to open and close the gym.

My left leg and lower back have been hurting since Wednesday. I sat in a hot bath with Epson salt earlier this afternoon. It did some good, but not a lot. I think it's because I'm using extra muscles during my temporary custodian job at my church. I could move around a little more in the gym tonight, but it was still a light workout. During stretching, I felt some tightness in the left side of my back. I have no idea what that is all about, and I'm hoping not to have to scratch up money to go to a doctor. I'll have to rely on aspirin for the time being.

Only Carla and Deb showed up. Tommy came in on Wednesday, and he promised he'd come in tonight, but it was a no go. Carla and Deb did stay until near 8:30 PM, and I closed up not long after they left.

The Right Coach

Barry called me last night, and we talked for a long time. He's concerned about who the park district may hire to replace Steve. I don't blame him. Unfortunately, neither Barry or Mary will have input into the hiring process. That'll all be done downtown. From what Steve told me a couple of months ago, the application process has become more strict, as well. The park district wants everyone to have a degree. Uh, I can buy someone having to have a degree in physical education to teach in the exercise and sports programs, but there is no degree in boxing.

I told Barry that I would have applied for Steve's job, but I still don't have a coach's license. "You can get one. All you have to do is take the test. I think that if you were the coach, between you and I, the program could stay competitive," Barry told me. Now I'm thinking I might apply after all to provide consistency and continuity. After all, most folks who've come in there for a while know me. They might be skittish about having to deal with someone totally new. It wouldn't hurt to put in an application. The worst that could happen is that I don't get the job.

The new coach has to be able to work with Barry. Barry is essentially the head coach. He's been with the park district for over 20 years. It wouldn't do to have someone in there who can't mesh with him.

There was also concern on Barry's part about characters rolling into the gym now that Steve is gone. As soon as word gets around that no one's minding the store per se, I can see some attempting to treat the place like it's an open gym. I've documented the more annoying incidents involving adults and kids strolling in off the street too many times on this blog. I don't like dealing with that kind of stuff, but I know how to handle it when it happens. Barry told me stories of similar incidents happening when the kids are in the gym on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
We both agreed that the squash on that stuff has to be consistent and immediate.

It may be weeks before someone is hired. I'm thinking the summer session might be half-way done before a new coach is put in place. In the meantime, I'll be in my usual spot, holding down the fort until that happens.

Steve's Official Last Day

I spent most of the day at home. It was rainy, I heard thunder, and I was a bit sad since it's the last day that Steve was going to be at the gym. I puttered around, applied for jobs online, watched a little TV. When I went to the gym was the first time I came out of the house all day.

Mary saw me as I came in, and told me of her plan to have Steve come back one more day. She wanted to give him a small going away party in appreciation for all of his work in the gym. Steve and JJ will be gone all next week for the National Golden Gloves, but Steve agreed to come in the Wednesday following that. I'm hoping that the going away party also doubles as a celebration party if JJ wins the championship.

I took pictures to document Steve's official time in the gym. Gabe had his camera, and he asked me to take a group shot of all the guys in the gym, which is featured above. From left to right, the guys are: JJ, John, Gabe, Jermaine, Steve, Foster and Wally.

Close to The End

The other Paris came in tonight, and he wondered if the gym is busier on Wednesdays than it is on Fridays. It depends. There have been times when the gym is so crowded that it's hard to find a clear spot to do your workout. Then other times, only two or three show up. Tonight was pretty busy. Mike brought his friend in, who is also known as Mike. Mike No. 2 sparred and got hit hard in the nose. He was bleeding for awhile, but eventually it was under control. It was the first time in a long time that I saw blood on the canvas. Steve wiped it up, but I suggested using bleach or rubbing alcohol to go over the canvas again later.

Diego and Nate Jr. came in, and they sparred. Nate caught Diego a few times, because Diego would back up, often into the ropes, and drop his hands.

Steve and JJ worked together, as JJ is going to the National Golden Gloves next week. He's going as part of a team. According to Steve, the teams and team coaches have had everything taken care of for them -- accommodations, travel, etc. Steve, Jerome and Barry are considered "private" coaches for the purposes of the tournament, so they have to come out of their pockets to take care of expenses. I wish I could go, but I don't have the funds. Also, I agreed to help the church stay clean now that the custodian is gone. I'll be doing that during the week until another custodian is hired.

This is Steve's last week at the gym, although he'll still be in Chicago for a little longer to finish things up. The gym will remain open; the Spring session is not officially done until the first week of June. I will come in so the door is open for people to work out. If I'm not able to come in on certain days, Mary will have one of the field house staff persons supervise the gym.

Mike received his belt for winning the Golden Gloves. It looked great! Had his name on it.

Tracy and Sam

When I arrived, Tracy Sr. and Tracy Jr. were already there, waiting for JJ, who came in late. Tracy Jr. was there to get sparring with JJ, which he did. He's only about 15, but he carries himself as if he is a lot older. Plus he has, as Steve said, "man strength". JJ commented on how hard Tracy Jr. can hit.

A man from Cameroon came in to work out. I noticed Older Jim watching him closely as the man shadow boxed. When I turned around again, it appeared as Older Jim was giving him tips, but it probably was the other way around. Older Jim hadn't been there two minutes, before he made a comment: "The gym is busy tonight." He was probably was thinking that he wasn't going to get a chance to work on the punch mitts. He didn't.

Sam, whom I hadn't seen in months, showed up. He gave us an update on Javon, another kid was shot recently. Sam and Javon had been hanging out at a friend's house. Javon had agreed to walk some dogs that were on the premises. He was approached by some gang banger. Javon told the guy he wasn't gangbanging, just out walking the animals. The gang banger seemed to accept this answer and he walked off. Javon returned the dogs back to their house, then left the house again. The gang banger double-backed, spotted Javon and said, "I got you now!" before putting a bullet in him. Fortunately, Javon is doing okay. "This happened in Hyde Park, which is something else, because that stuff doesn't happen in that neighborhood often," Sam told us.

Just like Rogers Park, Hyde Park has a diverse population, anchored by a university, in this case, the University of Chicago. One of the differences between the two areas is that Hyde Park has embraced diversity for a long time. In recent years, some of the encroaching condo and townhouse buyers in Rogers Park stereotyping races, most notably African-Americans and Hispanics. They openly wish "those people" would get out of the area on some of the blogs about the neighborhood. The idea of diversity has seemingly been more embraced in Hyde Park. But just like most Chicago neighborhoods, that neighborhood is not immune from crime.

As I was taking off my wraps at the end of the night, I noticed my medical ID bracelet was gone. If it had fallen inside the gym, I would have found it. The gym is not that big. It probably fell off when I took my jacket off while walking through the park to the fieldhouse. That damn bracelet has been threatening to fall off for the longest. Frankly, I had become tired of wearing it. I do have to replace it, however, but this time, I'll get a necklace.

Wednesday After The Gloves

I saw Jim as I was walking up to the fieldhouse. It wasn't long before his usual complaints began. Steve interacted with him as little as possible. Jim seems to have a fixation with working on the punch mitts every time. Steve was tired, having worked with JJ on the mitts for most of the evening. Jim opted to spar instead, and he got in with Brian. I think he only did a couple of rounds before stepping out of the ring.

Earlier, Jim decided he should give Ben some jabbing lessons. Ben went along with him, but gave the impression that he probably could have done without Jim's intervention. "He's been here a year, and he should be farther along than he is," Jim told me off to the side. "Ben has been here for a few years," I informed Jim. That conversation quickly turned into Jim complaining about what Steve doesn't teach him. I was glad when the bell rang to start the round again.

John sparred with Brian, and started giving out early. "Don't focus on when the bell will ring. The round will end when it does. Hoping and waiting for it to end will just make the round longer," Steve advised John. That's true. How many times I had I been in sparring, wondering what happened to the sound of the bell? Once you start thinking like that in the middle of a round, you're no longer focused on the opponent in front of you.

Seems like quite a few people were roaming into the gym, including Montrell, the star of the youth boxing program. A woman who claimed to be sixty years old -- she didn't look older than late 40s -- came in with her 25 year old son, who said he was interested in boxing. The duo looked around a little, but didn't stay long.

None of the new people returned, and I was the only woman in the gym tonight. It was a little quiet in the gym, as it usually is behind the Golden Gloves. Steve added JJ and Mike's names as winners on the chalkboard in the gym for that purpose.

Two For The Books

No one was guarding the door when I arrived at the Golden Gloves this evening. That was unusual, considering this is the week of the finals. I waltzed in, not having to show my license or pay.

Mike and JJ were already in the bleachers, chillin' out, when I got there. Steve showed up a few minutes later. Several of Steve's and Mike's friends showed up to watch the festivities, which thankfully, started on time. Mary, Loyola Park's fieldhouse supervisor, was also in attendance. JJ's fight was number eight; Mike's fight was number 11. There were 15 fights in total.

JJ, as expected, was highlighted in the Golden Gloves finals' program as a boxer to watch. He had been featured once before a few years ago. His strengths (long reach, listens to his coach) were pointed out as well as his weaknesses. I wondered if his opponent would read about the weaknesses and keep them in mind.

The guy JJ fought must have taken lessons from George C., a former opponent of JJ's earlier in the Gloves. He kept grabbing and holding. Barry and Jerome were in JJ's corner, along with Steve, while I stood in some bleachers closer to the ring to take pictures. I saw where JJ tried to get in some uppercuts, but they weren't fully formed. His opponent seemed to shy away from JJ in the second round, and he stayed near the ropes. Not a good idea. The guy was leaning over, away from JJ, and did not cover himself well. JJ tested him out with several jabs, then socked him with a right. The opponent thudded to the canvas. The referee stepped in and waved his arms over the fallen boxer. It was over.

Steve was so happy, that he hoisted JJ up in the air. Jerome was outside of the ring, hopping up and down, while Barry was grinning from ear to ear. I was in the bleachers, yelling "That's right, baby! That's how you do it!" while the people closest to me looked at me like I was crazy. I ran down to the ring. A litle kid came up to JJ when he came out of the ring and asked for his autograph. JJ obliged him.

A few fights later, it was Mike's turn. I was standing near while Nick, the coach of Mike's opponent, warmed his guy up. The guy looked rugged to me. "Mike's gonna have to work with this one," I thought to myself. JJ helped Steve in the corner with Mike, and I sat in an empty seat on the front row to position myself to take photos.

There was a lot of pushing and shoving, especially on the part of Mike's opponent. The referee warned the both of them about this. The opponent was also told about holding Mike so much. Finally, I heard the ref tell the opponent, "If I have to warn you one more time, you'll lose a point!" Not long after he said that, the opponent started up again, and a point was removed. Mike worked his jab to good advantage a few times, and caught the guy up in the corner a few more. At the end of it all, Mike was awarded the win.

"This is one for the books," I told Steve afterwards. "You can put this on your resume under accomplishments." He laughed. It was an excellent night for Loyola Park Boxing Club.

Grumble Free Wednesday

It was sort of old home week because both Javonte and Sadiq stopped into the gym. Javonte had his girlfriend and adorable one-year old daughter with him. They stayed around for most of the evening, but Sadiq was only there for a few moments.

John was a new guy who came in. He said he had trained at a gym out in Libertyville. I was surprised there was a gym there. The last time I was up there was to attend a singles' worship event at the church where my pastor used to work. That was about four years ago. From what I viewed of the town, it appears to be very conservative. Too conservative to support a boxing gym, it seemed. John explained that there wasn't much sparring to be had. He had visited a few gyms, including a few Park District ones, and he was impressed with Loyola Park the most. He signed up for the boxing program.

Otis and Pete sparred, and Otis got Pete several times with some hard hits. Steve finally had them stand very close to each other in order to make them work more on combinations, as opposed to going for the big shots.

Steve worked with Mike and JJ earlier as they both have their final bouts at the Golden Gloves this Friday. Older Jim did not come to the gym, so there were no complaints to be heard about the coach "working with the contenders". It made for a bit of peace in the room for the evening, which was refreshing.

I was interviewed on Monday about this blog, and the article featuring me, as well as a few other Rogers Park blogs is online at the web site for The Loyola Phoenix. The Phoenix is the student newspaper of Loyola University. I'll go up to the campus tomorrow and get the print version. I started the blog thinking it would be interesting for people to read a slice-of-life about a middle-aged woman who was crazy enough to be involved in a sport where one can become hurt easily and very badly. After viewing some of the negativitity on the other blogs, I also wanted to show that some positive things do happen in an area that is considered troubled, mainly by some condo and townhouse owners who are at odds with the poor, the working class, people of color and the renters who were here before they moved in. I liked the article, which sought to explore why Rogers Park is one of the "bloggiest" areas in Chicago and the USA.

Friday Night Grumbling

Steve told me something that made a lot of sense tonight. He sees the adult boxing program as being designed mainly for those in their late teens to mid-twenties. Those are the folks who would most likely be interested in competing. Plus, they have the stamina for it. After all, boxing is a young person's game. Of course, someone older, such as myself, is welcomed to join the program, and put in a workout. However, any amateur coach's time would be better spent on working with possible young contenders, then trying to get matches for people over 35 years of age. Unfortunately, the Masters division of USA Amateur Boxing gets no respect.

Older Jim was asking what happened to Igor. I assumed that Igor just disappeared again. "He probably was discouraged that he didn't get into the Golden Gloves. But he should be in here training for next year," Older Jim stated. It doesn't matter if Igor comes to the gym every week from here until next spring. He's about the same age as me, and his chances for making it into that tournament are just as dismal as mine. As disappointing as it was, I had to finally give up on that dream. Eventually, Igor and Paris will have to give up on their visions of glory in the ring.

I'm not sure what Older Jim's aims are in relation to boxing. He has mentioned that he teaches what he picks up in the gym to his son at home. Older Jim now follows the workout plan that was posted in the gym years ago by a former coach named Harlein, who unfortunately is now deceased.

Older Jim doesn't seem to understand that it's a program, not a class. The place is run as a traditional gym. No instructor is going to come out at the beginning and ask people to gather around each time. It doesn't work like that. He left early, grumbling to a guy out in the hallway that "The coach is spending all his time with the contender!" Steve was working with JJ at the time. "I want to learn boxing and there are no teachers here, so I'm outta here!" Older Jim continued to snap. No teachers? Really? I held the pads for him on Wednesday night, and also gave him some pointers on the double end bag. Older Jim has asked other guys in the gym to assist him when Steve was occupied with other boxers. He has also stated that he's mimicked the moves of the other boxers in order to pick up techniques. For him to say he's hasn't been taught anything is false. At this point, I'm wondering: if Older Jim is so dissatisfied, then why does he keep coming to the gym?

None of the newcomers came in tonight, which is a good sign that none of them may return. It's a shame that so many newcomers give up so early. The cost of the program is low, but money wasted is still money wasted.

A Frank Talk

Once again, Paris expressed to Steve his desire to become a professional boxer, despite of his middle-aged status. Steve frankly explained to him that his chances for that are nil. Steve asked Older Jim to also talk to Paris, figuring Paris would understand it better from a man closer to his age. Instead, Older Jim stated that Paris should be able to pursue his gym, and that Steve should help him achieve it.

Of course, Steve is not going to do that on the basis that it is fruitless to do so. Older Jim made his usual complaints about himself not being taught boxing. "The coach is too busy working with the contenders," he grumbled to me later. To an extent, that is true. However in Steve's defense, the contenders have proven themselves to be serious enough about the sport to put the work in. Also, some of them have helped the program in and out of the gym. For example, both JJ and Mike have helped out in the corners at boxing matches.

This is only the second week of the spring session, and already, the newbies have disappeared. Younger Jim was the only one of the four from last week who came in today. I helped him with technique on the heavy bags and the double-end bag. Who knows why the other three didn't come in. Steve works with everybody, but it is irritating when he puts efforts into helping folks out who drop out not long after the session begins. The same goes for folks who go MIA, then show up a few weeks later, expecting Steve to drop what he's doing to catch them up. Then they become absent again.

Saturday At The Gloves

Unfortunately, the batteries in Steve's digital camera gave out right as the bell for the first round in JJ's match rang. My digital camera only caught about 40 seconds of that round before it stopped recording.

JJ does have quite a fan club. When we were at St. Andrews last week, a 10 year old boy who also boxes, hung around JJ for awhile, engaging him in conversation about the sport. Later, I asked JJ who the kid was, and he said he didn't know. But the boy sure knew who he was. During his fight tonight, they were many calls of "Go, blue!", as JJ was fighting out of the blue corner. When he won, there was a lot of applause.

Steve figured that JJ may be featured again in the Golden Gloves program book like he was a couple of years ago. Boxers who show a lot of promise are always featured in that book, which is sold during the final week of the Gloves. JJ could also be up for a best boxer in the tournament award, as well, if he gets another win during the finals.

Now there are two guys -- JJ and Mike -- in the finals. Steve commented that this year saw the lowest number of boxers out of Loyola Gym who participated in the finals. I kept wishing that Mort would have come back in, but he didn't. Jordan made noises about getting into the Gloves, as did Igor, but neither one of them had a chance for various reasons. I hope both JJ and Mike bring trophies back to the gym. It would really be cool for JJ for bring one in, because that would be the second trophy for him.

An Addition To The Four

Another new person, a guy, came into the gym this evening. I overheard JJ tell him that it was okay for him to join the others in the ring. Steve was teaching the new people how to wrap their hands. Instead, the guy jumped rope and did what appeared to be a form of footwork in front of the mirrors. He didn't stay long, and he was gone long before the other new people left.

Mike stopped in for a minute near the end of the night. He said he wasn't feeling well. I gave him his camera; he had forgotten to get it back from me last night while we were at the Golden Gloves. Hopefully, he'll feel better soon.

After the new people left, JJ and Steve did some work on the pads. Steve didn't want JJ to do a hard workout, since he has another fight at the Gloves tomorrow night.

The thought crossed my mind to jump rope instead of using the step tonight. I had said to myself that eventually, I would go back to jumping rope on a regular basis. My knees were not up to the challenge, however. They have been bothering me for the past couple of days. I suppose I could get some over-the-counter arthritis meds, but since they only mask the pain, but not cure it, what would be the use? Exercise would probably be better with alleviating some of the symptoms.

Meanwhile At The Gloves

I had seen George C., JJ's opponent tonight, fight before. I believe I saw a tape of one of his bouts. George C. held his opponent more often than he threw punches, and somehow managed to win. I was taping JJ's fight with him using Mike's camera. During the second round, I came down to the main floor to get a better view.

One of the guys whom I was standing near grumbled about George C.'s fighting methods. "When I fought with him, he was holding me all the time, too. I can't stand the way he fights," the guy commented. Others nearby admonished the referee for not taking points from George C. Before the decision was announced, George C. raised his right arm in victory. "Put your arm down," one man in the audience yelled. The judges gave the win to JJ.

Four Enter For Short Night

Steve called earlier today and asked if I could open the gym instead of going to the Golden Gloves to see Mike fight. He was concerned about the gym being closed another day due to the tournament. I agreed, especially since it is close to the Spring session beginning. Newcomers might come in, and they did.

The newbies were Jim, Mark, Tony, and Samantha (Sam was how she introduced herself). I didn't go over much, just basic footwork and the jab.

Paris and Jordan showed up with a friend of theirs, who looked as if he wanted to work out. It seemed that Paris and Jordan waited until they got their friend to the gym to tell him he couldn't touch the equipment unless he was signed up.

People cleared out of the gym at 8:00 PM, which was very early. I was going to stay until the end, but something told me to leave, too. A basketball game was going on elsewhere in the fieldhouse, and people were roaming around. It was probably best to cut down on kids and others just strolling in the gym just because the door was open. I remembered the guy who shuffled in last week and attempted to tell me how to hit the speed bag, and I bristled. After putting things away, I was out early.

Steve called not long after I arrived home. He said that Mike did a very good job during his fight this evening, the best that he's seen out of him. Mike won, so he's in the finals, which is excellent. It's JJ's turn tomorrow night at the Gloves, and I'm hoping he gets to the finals, too.

Come to think of it, I did see Percy at the Golden Gloves the other day I was there. He was working the gloves table like he did the year before. He explained to me that he was getting over a bad flu.

Hints Not Taken

Mike and Brian both got on the roster for fights at the Golden Gloves this past Tuesday. Brian was lucky to get the number eleven slot, but poor Mike's bout was number 24 -- the last one of the evening. By the time he climbed into the ring, it was after 11:30 PM.

Brian's fight was close. It appeared he was pressing harder than his opponent was, especially during the last two and a half rounds. Unfortunately, the judges gave the decision to the other boxer. Mike was hyped up when he was in the ring. I could hear Steve giving him instructions to calm down. Mike did win, however. Because there are so many guys in his division, he has to do another preliminary bout this evening.

Seldom do I ever say, "I'm glad the gym is closed tonight", but this is one of those times. When Paris (Jordan's buddy) started coming to the gym, I had a feeling it wouldn't be long before he started making noises about having a relationship with me. I'm not bragging, mind you. I'm average looking because I received more of my dad's looks than my mama's, and I still need to lose some pounds. Yet I tend to attract men like Paris, who are, without question, nowhere near my type of man.

Let's have an understanding. Jordan ain't the brightest candle in the room, but he's still in his early twenties. There is time for him to (hopefully) improve. Paris is a year younger than I, and has issues he has admitted to, that I don't want to go over here. Let's just say he's done some things that have goofed his life up in a major way. Now at age 45, he's trying to rebuild his life. I'm not saying it can't be done, but it's a lot easier to do so if youth is on your side.

It begain with him asking me if I had a husband when we were in the gym on Wednesday. "Are you looking for one?" he asked when I affirmed there is no hubby at home. Knowing what he was up to, I tried to cut him off at the pass. "I don't know why some men seem to think that all women are looking for a man. After my dad divorced my mom, she got along very well without one. She never got married again," I told him. "But people need love and companionship," Paris countered. In my experience, guys who come back with that statement in an attempt to woo some woman, are usually the least equipped to give those things. "I like to live alone," I replied, hoping to give a hint that the subject was closed for further discussion.

When a woman gives the hint or states outright, "I'm not interested," the best thing for any man to do is to take her words at face value. It is foolish for a man to flatter himself into thinking he's the exception when it's clear the woman is not going to play ball. Paris continued to grin at me for the rest of the evening, and made some comment about me being "cute". "We ain't the two, and I ain't the one," I thought to myself.

The Long Night

Neither Mike or Brian got matches at the Golden Gloves last night, but JJ did. However, the organizers took a long time in putting the boxers' names up. Finally, we learned that JJ's match was number 26.

I had arrived around 6:00 PM and managed to get in free. As usual, the happenings didn't start on time at 7:30 PM, but a little later. One of the boxers failed to report to ringside, so he was disqualified; another boxer got a walk over. Quite a few of the matches were stopped because of boxers who couldn't go on after being pummeled.

Steve and I were in JJ's corner. His fight didn't come until after 11:30 PM. When JJ first came out, he was mirroring the odd stance of his opponent, a Russian kid. JJ later said that he was trying to figure out the guy's style. He spent a good part of the match hesitating, waiting to see what the Russian would do. The Russian was nervous about JJ's right hand, because he shied away every time JJ raised it. JJ popped the guy with several good blows to the body. Finally, the referee stopped the fight, and JJ got the win.

Right before JJ's bout was a bout between Lui and another guy. The ref was accused of cheating and making calls in favor of Lui by the people in his corner. The other guy's coach was particularly loud and vocal, so much that Mike Q., the president of the IL Boxing Association had to step in to calm things down.

Besides Mike Q., most of the regulars in the boxing community were there including Shifty, Ted, Kitchens, Gentleman Gerald, Rita, Tina, Alan, Gary and Johnny B. I was looking for Percy, but he wasn't there. But pro boxers Michael Walker and Fres Quendo were.

Before The Gloves

JJ could be a good coach. He held pads for me on Friday night, and explained (very well) the reasoning behind different combinations. The Golden Gloves begin tonight, and since I no longer have an amateur boxer's license, I'll probably have to pay to get in. There's a chance I could get in free if I arrive very early, and catch Steve. He's not planning to get there until after 6:00 PM. The guys who have matches are expected to get themselves there and weigh-in on their own. I'm wondering if Gary dropped off his old boxing equipment to Les. I've refrained from calling my ex-boss to check, out of lingering anger over how quickly I was ushered out of my former job. For all I know, Les could have been driving around with the stuff in the back of his trunk for all this time. At Joe's last week, Mike and Brian didn't get fights. Kristen didn't want to fight that evening, so she didn't have a match either. I believe that Paul fought and won.

Retractions and Apologies

I attributed a quote to the wrong person in my last post. It was Mike, not Pete's buddy, who said during intervals, "The one girl in the gym is not complaining!" I had my head down, focusing on the bag, heard the two Petes (yes, Pete's buddy is Pete, too) razzing each other, and assumed the second Pete had made the comment.

Last night, Steve told the first Pete that I had made him out to be a whiner during that interval session. No insult was intended! So I apologize to both of the Petes as well as Mike for not being accurate.

Too bad I can't attend the show fight that is coming up this Wednesday. Margaret, the choir director, called for a rehearsal that night. The church is having a Maundy Thursday service during the time the choir usually practices. This upcoming Wednesday is the last rehearsal before Easter, and I can't skip it. I hope everybody who has a match does well.

Igor had told Steve he wanted to spar for ten rounds, but when Steve asked him to get in the ring with the other guys, Igor changed his mind. "One round," he said in his broken English. Steve gave up on him. "Forget it. If you don't spar now, you won't spar again," he told him.

JJ was wearing several tops in an attempt to lose a few pounds. I couldn't help but think about an incident with actor/comedian Martin Lawrence a few years ago. Lawrence went jogging -- in Los Angeles heat -- wearing a sweat suit along with several other clothes and fell out. Most of JJ's weight loss was probably going to be water weight, which would come back once he drank water. But then, like a lot of the guys in the gym, he's young and his metabolism hasn't started the inevitable slow down yet.

Three In The Place

Igor, Jim and Jordan were all in attendance last night. Fortunately, it appeared that all three did not give Steve a lot of grief. Igor mumbled something about signing up for the Golden Gloves, and I rolled my eyes. Steve was confirming with him that he would spar with Jim on Friday. Igor should have done that last night, but every time he's given the opportunity, he puts it off for the next time. "Hold him to his promise if he comes in here on Friday," I heard Steve tell Jim.

Surprisingly, Jordan did not bug Steve about getting some sparring. He watched the other guys with curiosity, which included Daniel, a friend of Brian's.

Near the end of the night we did five, three minute rounds of intervals. Pete and his buddy were razzing each other about keeping up, and his buddy noted, "The one girl on the bag is not complaining!" The one girl was me, since Carla had left before that took place. I was sweaty at the end of it, but I felt very good. My mood, which had been down all day, was considerly lightened afterwards.

Training Misconceptions

"Is anybody teaching here?" Jim asked me last night, with irritation in his voice. "Steve does give instruction the first few weeks of the session," I told him. "I mean, I come in here to learn, and if the only way I can is by watching and mimicking others, that's not helping me," Jim continued. I felt a little annoyed at his attitude. He seemed to have forgotten that he signed up near the end of this session. Therefore, he missed the first three to four weeks, the time period when Steve teaches the basics to beginners.

If I become coach of that gym, I'm going to overemphasize that no personal training sessions will take place. I hope that if someone else becomes coach, they will hammer that point home, too. If people want that, then they need to go to JABB Gym, which does offer private boxing lessons. But they will pay a pretty penny for that. Jim is not the only one who has walked into that gym expecting personal attention every time they are there. But honestly, how many times does Steve have to alert people that they can't have that there? Do they not recognize they aren't the only person in the gym? What do they expect? It's a park district gym, not some place like Bally's or Crunch.

I told Jim that he is free to ask Steve or anyone else to help him. I've observed Jim doing that, so I don't get his irritation. Is he waiting for someone to come to him? That's not necessarily going to happen; this is not grade or high school. If he or anybody else really wants to learn, they'll put the effort forth to get the information.

Igor's Pipe Dream

I was the first one to arrive at the gym last night, so I waited outside the door for Steve to arrive. Igor showed up next, mumbling about his plans to enter the Golden Gloves. When Gilberto saw us there, he came and unlocked the door. A poster announcing the registration dates/times and the dates of the tournament was under the door. Igno spied the poster and proceeded to pester both Gilberto and I about the dates. Gilberto was able to escape, as he had to go back to his duties, so Igor continued to ask me the same things over and over. Finally, I became annoyed and told him firmly, "The information is exactly what it is on the poster, Igor." He might not have picked up on all of my English, but he had to have caught my attitude. Thankfully, he left me alone to do his workout.

No sooner than Steve came in, Igor was on him, peppering him with the same questions. Steve has the patience of Job. Several times, I heard him explain patiently to Igor that he has to find someone who is no more than five years older or younger than he is in order to get a fight at the tournament. Igor is 47 years old, a year older than I, and therefore, would be in the Masters boxers category. The Chicago Golden Gloves hasn't included a Masters division in the tournament for a long time. The only way a boxer over age 35 can get a fight in that tournament is to show up during registration with another Masters division boxer. Between Steve and I, we could never find opponents for me when I was still allowed to compete before diabetes took over. Igor isn't going to have much success, either.

Kristin told me that she works out at various gyms, including a new gym that opened up on the south side. I would like to check it out. It sounds like it's sort of a replacement for the old Windy City Gym, which operated on the west side for decades before it closed down a couple of years ago.

I heard that David Diaz is having an open training session at JABB Gym today. Sure wish I could go. Sometimes, professional boxers have open trainings that the public and the press are invited to view. I've seen old films of Muhammad Ali, then known as Cassius Clay, having open training sessions at gyms. They look interesting, as well as a lot of fun.

Since my current job will be over due to downsizing after tomorrow, I sent an email to a board member who had told he had some old boxing equipment he wanted to give to me. I asked him to drop it off with Les, then I'll arrange to get it from him later.

An early warning was sent to Margaret, the choir director, that I may be missing from choir rehearsals when the Golden Gloves start later this month. The tournament begins right after Easter; I know Margaret will be happy I won't miss rehearsals before that holiday.

Competition For Coach

Steve said, "You have some competition for my job", this past Friday. Paul and Nate Sr. have expressed an interest in applying for the coach's job.

The advantage of having Nate Sr. as the coach would be his experience. He was a professional boxer in his youth. Like me, he's volunteered in the program -- with both the kids and the adults -- for a long time. Also, many of the young guys like and respect him.

Paul, who's around the same age as JJ, could bring a lot of guys into Loyola Park's gym. Paul is a good boxer with a good record. He's well known. His girlfriend, Kristin, is hooked up with other female boxers around the city, including Rita, who is a professional boxer. She could help bring some women into the gym who could represent Loyola Park in various competitions. Also, there's the added value of her bringing more women in who would be serious about the sport.

I told Steve that Willie was interested in his job, too. I like Willie, and he has boxing experience. But Willie does have a temper. No matter how many hotheads may be in the gym, the coach has to be the one person who can keep his or her cool most of the time. Even if I don't get it, I'll still continue to assist whoever becomes coach.

Intervals

Brian asked Kristin if he could use her interval timer. I had seen them in boxing equipment catalogs, but wasn't sure how they worked. They can be set for different times (15 second spurts, for example). The bells marking the interval periods ring differently than the bells on the normal round timers. Brian, Ben and myself did intervals -- hitting the heavy bag furiously -- and it was a good workout.

The gym was fairly populated last night, but I noticed that Kristin and I were the only women in attendance. I ran into Nina at Starbucks several days ago. I noticed that she was doing some work on her computer and was surrounded with papers. I thought I remembered she told me she was a college student. Perhaps that's why she hasn't been able to come to the gym for awhile.

I had ran into Jordan on Sunday while I was walking to church. He was a no-show last night. Jim, whom Steve likened to being an older version of Jordan, returned to the gym after being gone for several sessions. Jim appeared to be miffed because Steve didn't have the time to work the pads with him. "That's what I came in here for," Jim grumbled before he left for the evening. He hasn't changed much; still expecting personalized attention that Steve can't really afford to give.

Igor was there last night, and he looked like he had lost some weight. I heard that he was a professional boxer in Europe, but never boxed professionally in the States.

I seemed to have a whole lot of energy last night. It was as if I was the Energizer Bunny. I don't know where that energy came from, but I wish I had it all the time.

Return To Friday

I wasn't at the gym this past Wednesday because of a cold. When I came in yesterday, I learned that I had missed some craziness.

Igor, who was attending the gym when I first started there six years ago, stopped in with his girlfriend. Igor's command of English was never that good, and according to Steve, it hadn't became any better since the last time he saw him. Steve figured out that Igor wanted to bring in ten boxers to train at Loyola Park. The boxers would pay Igor, and Igor would use the space. That was a no-no, because Loyola Park is a Chicago Park District gym, not a private one. Steve steered Igor over to Antonio's MMA gym instead.

Jordan, who hadn't been there all of last week, popped up on Wednesday. He was bugging Steve about working with him in the gym. Jordan just doesn't seem to get it. No matter how many times Steve has told him that he has to be more consistent in his showing up to the gym, it doesn't sink in. Neither does any of the advice that JJ, Mike, or any of the other guys who've been there for awhile, seem to take in Jordan's mind, either.

On Thursday, I was working out at the Englewood site. Ashanti and Diana, two of the Early Childhood staff persons, expressed their regret at my having to leave the agency. Les decided to resign after 30 years. As a result, the agency decided not only not to fill his position, but they decided to close down the office that only he and I were in. My job was eliminated; I'll be out after the first week of March. No, it's not cool the way everything went down, but on the positive side, I won't have to ask Les if I can leave early for the City-Wide Tournament and the Golden Gloves, which both jump off in March.

Ashanti told me that she used to participate in Muy Thai, but hadn't had the chance to take it up in awhile. She'd like to get back to it. Diana was surprised that I boxed. Les had mentioned it to her some time ago, but she thought he was joking. While I was talking to them in the cafeteria, Les walked in. "That is a pastime of hers," he told them.

Eli and Laila

Friday night was a contrast to Wednesday. The gym had been packed on Wednesday, but few were in attendance last night. Pete, who's a freshman at nearby Loyola University, came in but he was gone after an hour or so. Carla and Deb came in, but that was it.

Steve brought Eli with him when he came in. Little Eli kept wanting to pick up the medicine balls, and he was a bit frustrated when he couldn't move the heaviest ones. He did manage to pick up a couple of them, which surprised me.

Barry stopped in with his daughter Laila, who's about the same age as Eli. I hadn't seen Laila since she was an infant. I was surprised to see she had become a tall girl for her age. Barry had taken her to the Daddy/Daughter Valentine's Day dance that's held every year in the the fieldhouse. The little girl was pretty in pink. I asked Barry if he was planning to go to an upcoming coaches' clinic that is happening on March 8th, and he said he was. Steve was thinking that he may not go. After all, he won't be coaching for awhile once he starts his new professor's job in July. The location of the coaches' clinic hasn't been announced, but the last few times, it was out in Harvey, IL.

Jordan didn't show up again. Steve told Barry he compared Jordan to how JJ was when he first started coming to the adult's gym. I'd like to think JJ wasn't that bad.

Eli became fussy, probably because the toddler had become tired. Steve opted to leave early to take him home, and I stayed behind with Carla and Deb to close up the gym.

Full Of Brooks

I was surprised to walk into the gym last night and find it packed with boxers. Jack, the coach at Brooks Park, brought several of his guys in for sparring. Paul was also there with Kristen. The only regulars were myself, JJ, Mike and Ben. There were a few of this sessions newcomers at the gym, too, including Carla, Pete and Brian. Twelve year old Toby (Kevin) and his older brother Alex, who are in Loyola's youth boxing program, were there, too. It was really good to see them, because I hadn't seen them for a long time. I ran into Nate Jr. while I was riding the bus home from work, but he was playing basketball that night.

The evening consisted of non-stop sparring, with guys going in and out of the ring. A couple of guys were bloodied up a little. I know Paul took a hit, and I think Pete did, as well. Everyone had a good workout out of it.

JJ commented that Jordan should have come in that night. I wish he had. I would have loved to see him play the "I know everything" role with the Brooks guys. It would have even been better if Jordan could have sparred with them. They all would have schooled him in what he doesn't know.

Comedic Sparring

Friday night sparring included a few rounds between Jordan and a new guy in the gym named Pete. Steve reminded Jordan that he had to listen to him while he was in the ring. However, once the bell rang, Jordan fancied himself to be Roy Jones Jr., trying to do a lot of moves. It looked sloppy. At the end of the first round, Steve warned him. "Do you want me to stop this right now?" he asked him. Jordan shook his head no, but continued his nutty behavior. Steve kept telling him to keep his hands up.

Pete had sparred a couple of times before, but he looked unsure against Jordan. Jordan caught him up against the ropes a few times, and got off some hard hits.

The rest of the guys in the gym stopped to watch what was going to happen next. Suddenly, we all were yelling out instructions to Pete. "Head movement!" "Work your jab!" "Keep going forward!" Pete caught Jordan in the fact a few times, mainly because Jordan kept dropping his hands. The other guys were falling out laughing at Jordan's attempts at trying to look cool in the ring. "This is comedic sparring right here!" JJ exclaimed.

Pete hung in until the end, even though he wasn't putting up much of a defense. When Steve took his headgear off after the last round, Pete was bleeding from his nose. I was surprised that Jordan managed to get a hit on him like that.

Jermaine told Jordan, "Roy Jones Jr. was boxing for 15 or 16 years before he started doing fancy moves. He can do them because he knows how to get out of them. You can't start off doing that stuff right away. You have to learn the basics first." It was sound advice, but I doubt that Jordan heard any of it.

JJ and Paul

Finally, JJ was in the gym the same time Paul was, and they were able to spar. The last few times Paul came around, JJ was missing, so it was good they finally were in the same place. Kristen, the IL State Champ, came with Paul; I learned that they live together.

Otherwise, the place was populated mostly by newcomers. Ben came in later, but that was it.

I struggled through my workout. The energy just wasn't there. The next day, I woke up with a scratchy throat, and I was dead tired. I hadn't been sleeping well for weeks. I stayed home from work.

It Figures

Jordan was a no-show this past Friday. Maybe he was still ticked over me stepping to him last Wednesday. Ask me if I care. He's constantly telling Steve that he's going to work out more, blah, blah, blah. Right after he makes such a statement, he disappears for a day or two. I bet any amount of money, Jordan will show up Wednesday begging to spar, or asking Steve to get him ready for the City-Wide or the Golden Gloves. After Steve tells him -- again -- to show him that he's serious about boxing, Jordan will play the same broken record.

Other than Keith and myself, the gym was filled with all newcomers. Shawn, the guy who Jordan was attempting to dazzle with his nonsense the other week, didn't come in. I wish he had, because we would not have been interrupted.

Steve and I did a few hard rounds on the pads. "You needed that," he told me, and I agreed that I did. The next day, I stood on the scale in my house and was shocked to find that I had lost 20 pounds. When I saw the foot doctor last week, he commented, "Whatever you are doing, keep it up. You look good." I didn't think I had lost but about five or seven pounds. Gives me incentive to keep watching what I eat. It's not about trying to look cute these days, it's about staying healthy.

Nice Once, Embarrassment Next Time

Steve was up at the front desk talking to Mary when I arrived at the fieldhouse. "Do you want me to talk to Jordan?" he asked. "No, I'll do it," I said. "He's down there," Steve replied, adding that he would back me up behind what I had to tell Jordan. Steve gave me the keys to open up the gym. JJ was waiting along with Jordan. "Do you have the keys?" Jordan asked when I approached them. "Yes, Jordan, I have the keys," I said, with a lot of irritation in my voice.

As soon as everyone was settled, I stepped to Jordan. "It was rude and disrespectful how you interrupted me while I was helping the new guy last Friday. I would appreciate it if you would not do that again." Jordan had an ugly look on his face, and started walking away as I got to the end of my speech. "My bad. . .I didn't mean to," he said, but I didn't believe it. "When you disrespect Hillari, you disrespect me. She's been here for awhile, and she's helped me out a lot. You could learn something from her," Steve said. No, Jordan didn't appreciate what I said. However, I didn't come to him like I normally would have towards someone in such a situation -- yelling, screaming, and cursing him out. I was nice this time.

Jordan did his usual the rest of the evening, which involved running his mouth, hitting the heavy bags without gloves on and half-doing his whole workout. He even had the nerve to ask Steve if he would get him ready for the Golden Gloves. JJ had suggested the City-Wide Tournament in March, but Steve once again reminded Jordan that he has to show that he's putting some work in.

I doubt that anything I said to Jordan sunk in. Friday will be the real test when Shawn comes back in, and I continue teaching him the basics. If Jordan pulls his usual crap again, I will embarrass him in front of the whole gym.

Three Times Dope

"That kid drives me crazy", Steve told me last night. He was referring to Jordan, who managed to tick me off several times that evening. A new guy, Shawn, came to the gym. He had never boxed at all, and he had to start at square one. Steve asked me to work with him, as Steve was working with the other new people who had been there since the session began.

Everything was going fine, until Jordan asked Shawn about his boxing experience. Jordan latches on to the novice boxers like flies on excrement. He doesn't want to spar anyone who has any kind of experience. Jordan jumped in and decided to give advice. He decided in his pea brain that I wasn't telling Shawn the right thing. "You should be teaching him how to stand," he told me. That's what I was doing. Excuse you, I thought.

Jordan interupts again while I was showing Shawn how to throw a jab. He deliberately steps in front of me and tells him, "Listen to me. I have more experience than her." I resisted the urge to snap on him and swallowed my irritation. During the next interruption, he said, "Why is she teaching you?" We've all been young and dumb, but Jordan is a classic textbook example of that. I've long suspected that Jordan has a problem relating to women based on how he interacts with me and the other women in the gym. However, Friday was the last time he's going to disrespect me. I will inform him of that fact the next time he comes into the gym.

Steve told me that a guy who used to come to the gym a long time ago has signed up for it again. "Guess who it is," he said. "Jeff?" I answered. "No, think of someone who was a real character. Jeff wasn't a character," he grinned. "You're right, Jeff wasn't like that. Not like Igor was, anyway," I agreed. "That was a good guess! That's who it is," he smiled.

Igor was going to the gym when I first started there in September of 2002. Igor is Russian, and his English isn't so good. But he would come in and put in a full workout. Igor had to have been in his mid-50's back then. He's probably over sixty years of age now. He used to drive Steve crazy with his questions, but Igor was harmless. I can put up Igor better than I can put up with Jordan right now.

There were no old timers in the gym last night (other than me), which is a rare occurrence. There are two guys whose names I don't know, who have been coming in for a couple of weeks now. Steve had been running drills with them in the ring. Before he left for the evening, Jordan dropped what he believed were pearls of wisdom on the two. Steve acknowledged that everything Jordan says is not exactly wrong. But after Jordan left, he told the two guys, "Take what Jordan says with a grain of salt. He acts as if he has a lot more experience than what he has."

Jordan had told Shawn he's been boxing since he was 17 years old. He's now 21. Yet he can't seem to take hits, which is one reason why Steve is reluctant to let him spar. I've also noticed when he's working with Steve, Jordan doesn't seem to know what the coach is talking about while he's giving him pointers. But he has loads of experience. "What a maroon", as Bugs Bunny would say.

JJ Misses A Turn

I learned Wednesday night that JJ lost his fight to Ramon at the IL State Championships. "Ramon danced in circles around him, while JJ didn't throw enough punches," Steve explained, sounding obviously disappointed. JJ would have been a state champ if he had won that match. There's one more go around at the Golden Gloves Tournament to bring home a trophy, then Steve will be gone.

Paul and Kristen came in; I met them both some time ago at a match out in Aurora, I believe. Steve said that Paul was robbed of a win at the State Championships, but Kristen won in her category. She told me that Rita, a professional boxer, runs a group for female boxers that meets at Degerberg Martial Arts Academy. I would love to go up there and check it out, despite the fact that I can no longer compete. Unfortunately, it meets on Sunday mornings, and I can't skip church services often.

Mike sparred with Paul. As usual, Jordan asked if he could spar. "You're not ready, man," Steve told him. When Jordan kept begging and sulking, Steve broke it down to him. "You can't get upset everytime you get hit, or someone accidently pokes you in the eye. You have to get used to that," he told him. Jordan promised he would act differently the next time he comes into the gym. Yet I noticed he was still doing his habit of not putting in a full, consistent workout.

Night Of Women

It was an easy and mostly quiet night in the gym Friday night. I was determined to get there on time. Les had me come out to the south side site again yesterday. After enduring someone falling on my knee while I was on the Red Line, and freezing on the Adams and Wabash platform while five trains zipped past before the one I needed arrived, I made it out there. Then he thought I was going to stay there all day, even though an annoucement had gone out earlier that the offices were closing early in observance of Dr. MLK Jr. Day. I keep telling him over and over that I cannot stay out at that location until 5:00 PM. The commute is too long getting there and coming back. "I have to be home in time so I can get ready to open up the gym. The coach won't be there tonight," I informed him. I'm beginning to believe he thinks I don't have a life outside of work. I certainly don't share his passion for kids, something that I've never misrepresented myself about to Les. I agreed to stay until 3:00 PM, and then I was out faster than water out of an overturned glass.

Jordan showed up, as I predicted he would, asking where Steve was. Paris Two came in, and it didn't take long for Jordan to gravitate to him. "You a new boxer?" he asked Paris Two. Jordan convinced Paris Two to put on some gloves and come in the ring with him. "Steve doesn't want people sparring when he's not here," I said, issuing the rule more to Jordan than to Paris Two. "We not sparring," Jordan said. I told them to be careful, then they did light drills for a few rounds.

At the end of the night, there was just myself, Carla, Deb and Arin in the gym. Usually, the guys are still hanging around and all the women (except for me) are gone. I had never seen that before in the six years I've been going to that gym.

State On The Way

Steve spent most of the time last night prepping JJ for his match at the Illinois State Boxing Championship, which takes place tomorrow night. Steve was considering closing up the gym Friday night, but I agreed to open it up. Knowing that in a couple of months, when the Golden Gloves are in full swing, the gym will probably be closed a lot, I figured I should come in.

Eric, Nick and Mike sparred with each other. Mike has often said he needs to calm down in the ring, and he was rushing the guys in the early rounds. Steve pointed this out, and Mike brought it down a little. Nick was tired out, but he hung in there with Mike. Steve told him that he has to get his cardio up. Eric took a hit in the face from Mike which really threw him off. Eric was supposed to do two rounds with Nick afterwards, but he begged off. He promised Steve he would do those rounds the next time.

Steve asked Andy about sparring next week, and Andy agreed. However, Andy admitted he felt a bit nervous about doing so. "You'll be fine," I assured him. Andy has advantages of a long reach and long legs. If he uses those to move around and keep his opponent away, he could avoid being hit too much.

Jermaine and Ben showed up, albeit late in the evening. Keith was a no-show, as was Jordan. JJ's friend, Sam was there again, but I'm not sure if he signed up for the gym. While newcomers Deb and Carla returned, I noticed that Dan, Paris, Paris 2 (there's a second new guy in the gym with that name) and Peggy didn't come in. When I pointed out Peggy's absence to Steve, he remarked, "I'm not surprised that she didn't come back." Honestly, neither am I. On the first day, she didn't give the impression that she was going to be there long.

I meant to try out an energy drink that I had picked up at Walgreens earlier this week. There have been plenty of times when I felt worn out before the workout got started good. Some of that can be blamed on being drained from dealing with frustrations at work before I get to the gym. Sometimes dealing with nonsense at work has the opposite effect of producing energy to burn (like last Friday when I took out my anger towards Les on the heavy bags). Other times, the slow down has to do with diabetes zapping my energy. I don't completely trust energy drinks because many of them are filled with caffeine. I was going to drink half of the bottle before I came to the gym, but I forgot. Hopefully, I remember on Friday. If it is effective, and doesn't leave me jittery or produces a big crash after it wears off, I might use it on a regular basis.

There was a cola called Jolt. I don't know if it's still on the market, but whenever I needed a major energy lift, I would grab a can of that. Jolt's advertising slogan was "Twice the sugar, twice the caffeine", and they weren't lying. However, that stuff was wicked. I would be up for hours, and the crash afterwards was a trip. After awhile, I left it alone.

Punches For Work

Friday did not start well. Les called and accused me of not paying attention to what a board member had said the day before about meeting with one of the directors. That was not true; in talking to the board member after Les's call, I was assured I hadn't misread their attentions at all. My desk was filled with work that I was behind on because Les had me out at the south side for two days the previous week. Les' comments about him not feeling he could depend on me to get things done, while I was in the middle of playing catch up were not appreciated. I pointed out how he had me taking two hour rides out to the south side -- on the abysmal public transportation system -- to do the south side program's office work. There are four support staff persons in place over there. "I've been running around for years," he retorted. "You're driving a car," I thought. I practically hung up on him.

The rest of the day went downhill, as I developed a headache and my lower back throbbed for the rest of the day. At four o'clock, I'd had enough. I left Les an email and a voice mail on his office phone that I was going home. I had no interest in actually talking to him live. He had already raised my blood pressure once that day. I wasn't going to go to the gym, but I had a chance to rest for awhile after I got home. Besides, I knew I had to take my bag out of the locker. The handwraps and scarf I wear in the gym had to be washed. Good thing I decided to go, because the heavy bags were perfect for me to take out my frustrations about work on. Memories of Les' smart aleck comments that morning fueled the hardest punches I could slam into the bag. If Les thinks I'm so damned incompetant and stupid, why does he keep me around? Obviously, I wouldn't have lasted at my job for six years if I wasn't doing things right most of the time. Unfortunately, Les excels at saying the wrong damn thing at the wrong damn time. Then he has the nerve to get an attitude because I have an opinion. I'm not about to make it my problem that he has a problem because I speak up.

Jordan did a sparring drill with Nick. Nick accidently poked Jordan in the eye. Jordan complained about it, even though Nick quickly apologized for it. Jordan wouldn't let it go. He kept grumbling about it, even after the sparring drill was done. Steve and JJ told Jordan that such things happen in the ring, and that he has to get used to it. Jordan didn't appear to be satisfied by what they said. I wondered what is Jordan going to do when he gets hit in a full-on sparring session, or in a real match? Whine like a little kid?

I noticed that Peggy did not come in on Friday. Deb wasn't there either, but she told me on Wednesday that she had another committment that night. Dan came in, and I was glad. I thought I had scared him off with talk of the past knockouts in the gym.

Arin and I worked on the pads. I really like her enthusiasm for wanting to learn technique. She told me the other day that she wanted to work on her footwork more, too. Overall, it was a very good workout, which once again, was something I needed.

The exertion made me feel better physically, but not emotionally. The disagreement Les and I had still ticks me off. I don't like to get angry often; I have a temper, and it takes days for me to cool off. It takes an even longer time to forget the arguement. That's never a good thing.

Winter Newcomers

Peggy, Deb, Carla, Dan, and Jordan's friend Paris made up the newcomers last night, which was the beginning of the winter session. Steve had them doing some cardio exercises, and Paris groaned about his ankle and Achilles' tendon not being able to take it. This is the guy who was talking about becoming a professional boxer, even though he's 45 years old and has never had an amateur bout.

I'm not too sure about how long the other new people will hang in there. I told Dan about the time Erin (who returned to the gym last night) nearly knocked me cold during a sparring match. I also told him about the time JJ laid Sadiq out in the ring. Dan seemed like a quiet, retiring guy. I hope I didn't scare him off. I offered to give Peggy and Carla some old handwraps I have, since new one were delivered to me at work today. The two of them thanked me for the offer, then gave the impression they wanted to see if they really liked the gym enough to continue with it. Arin, who also came in last night, assured them that people in the gym were not "jerks" and cool people.

Keith told me all he wanted to do was fight. How many times have I heard him say that? Later, Steve revealed that Keith was talking about getting fights again to him. I had told Steve a few weeks ago when Keith started coming around again that was probably on Keith's mind. The Golden Gloves is not that far off, after all. Steve's not interested in going around and around again with Keith over the latter becoming consistent and focused in training.

Going For It

I emailed Steve last Wednesday afternoon to say that I would like to apply for his job. I mentioned that I may be a long shot for it, depending on who else applies, but it's worth a try. He told me when I got to the gym, that he and I would have to talk to Mary, the fieldhouse supervisor about it, and I'd have get an application.

Les had me come out to the Englewood site two days in a row, both Thursday and Friday. It's a major pain to get there: two hours on three trains. Some of the staff people there pointed out that I always look irritated when I get there. Well, anybody would after such a long commute, and add the fact that I don't like going out there very often. He's out there for the duration, since there are no plans to replace the director who resigned back in November. A restructuring will take place to cover that position sometime soon. I'm hoping a restructuring doesn't mean me having to be out at Englewood on a permanent basis. If I get Steve's job, it would present a problem, as well as incoveniencing me in the other things I do outside of work. My time is valuable, and I can't spend most of it on long commutes every day.

On Friday, Terrell came in. It was the last time before he returned back to college. He told us he'll be back in late spring/early summer. Jordan was still making noises about sparring. I wondered how many times Steve will have to tell him to put in a decent workout. I overheard Terrell telling Jordan about doing three rounds at each station, too. Whether Jordan actually starts doing a full workout remains to be seen.

My right shoulder and right knee were bothering me. I volunteered at the annual roller skating party for the foster kids that the agency I work for deals with. That was on Thursday. The DJ put on "You Can Have Watergate" by the JB's, one of the many songs by the James Brown-fronted 1970's band that is played constantly at predominately African-American rinks. I skated wildly, took a corner too fast, and fell on my right side. I tried to fall correctly and be slick about it at the same time, but it didn't work. As usual, I only felt a sting and nothing else. Of course, I felt it the next day.

Last Friday of The Year

JJ and Keith came in, plus a couple of guys who normally train at a gym out in Schiller Park. One of the Schiller Park guys looked very familiar to me. I think he might have visited Loyola Park over a year ago. He reminded many of Mike, by his quickness and the way he moved.

Gabe also came in, as he usually does when he has breaks from college. He told Steve that he was planning to attend law school at the college where Steve and Ellen will be teaching later in 2008. "I don't have contacts in the law school, but I'm sure Ellen does," Steve told him.

Jordan walked in the gym later on. "Well, look who it is! Jordan comes in 15 minutes before closing time!" Steve commented. "I've been sick, man," was Jordan's excuse. He said he'd be on time next week and wanted Steve to work him hard.

Steve wondered about Josh, who used to come in the gym on and off. "I think Josh is still in Japan teaching English," I said. For a brief minute, I had considered doing that. All you need is a college degree in anything. Seeing how I've never been on a plane in my life, nor been anywhere outside of the USA --I've seldom traveled outside of Illinois, for that matter -- that idea faded quickly.

The gym will probably be crowded next week when the winter session begins. It usually is with people looking to burn off all pounds they gained between Halloween and New Year's Eve.

Three For The Gym

Outside of Steve, myself, Andy and Keith were in the gym last night. Steve commented on how he assured everybody last week that the gym would be open, but yet, few showed up. I noted Jordan's absence especially. He was begging Steve to let him spar the last time, and Steve wouldn't because Jordan had been missing a few times. I bet he shows up on Friday to put the beg on Steve again to get in the ring. I wouldn't be surprised if Jordan gets turned down again.

I had been home all day because I took a floating day to extend the Christmas holiday a little bit. After I got a little housework done, it felt good to get a short nap in during the afternoon. Luckily, Les called and woke me up, or else I would have been sleeping up until it was time to go to the gym. Les got the men's spa certificate I sent him, and he told me to expect my birthday/Christmas gift in the mail. I'm wondering if he actually brought me something from the Ringside catalog I lent him.

Steve and I worked on the punch mitts. He pointed out that I have a habit of not moving around after I throw punches. After all this time, I'm still trying to figure out why I do that. The idea is not to get hit, or get hit much. One resolution is set for 2008 -- move around more in the ring!

Getting It On Film

Terrell, Wally, and JJ sparred this past Friday. Terrell taped Wally's sparring session on Wally's cell phone. The images came out nice, as well as the sound. Steve told them both that he wished they were around all year. Wally's a recent college grad, but he has projects lined up already. Terrell still has another year to go, so neither can spare the time, although they wish they could. Terrell mentioned that he tried to start up a boxing club at his college, but the funding fell through.

Jordan kept begging Steve to let him spar. "You haven't been here, man," Steve told him, which was true. Jordan was MIA the last few times the gym was open. Steve told him he had to work out more and get his cardio up. Jordan reminds me of other guys who've come into the gym who always want to spar, but never want to do the other work involved.

Keith came in briefly to hang out a little, then he was out. None of the other women showed up except me. I'm wondering if Arin and Nina will return for the winter session; the both of them seemed very interested in keeping up the workout.

Closer To The End

Rich told me he'd been away for a month, training in Brazil at a mixed martial arts gym. He said it was intense, with training going on practically every day. Sounded fascinating to me. If I had a little more martial arts experience (I only have a yellow belt), and was about 15 years younger, I would have been all over mixed martial arts.

Steve announced that he and Ellen are very likely to sign a contract to teach at a school out of state. Terrell, Rich and Wally wondered what would happen to the adult boxing program once Steve is gone. Steve wasn't sure. I told him about Willie expressing an interest in the job. Steve said that Willie would probably make a good coach because he has the presence for it. Terrell didn't remember who Willie was, until I reminded him about the sparring match they had a few weeks ago. Willie went a little wild, and Terrell took a lot of shots to the face. "Oh, that guy," Terrell laughed.

The Chicago Park District has instituted a stricter procedure for hiring, which requires that anyone teaching a sports or exercise class has to have a degree. "Boxing is not something you go to college to learn," Steve pointed out. Barry became the kids' boxing coach because he was recommended by Harlin, the late boxing coach who ran that program for 20 years. The adult program came into being because Barry recommended Steve for the job. Steve had started in 1999, assisting Barry with the kids.

While driving me home, Steve asked me if I would be interested in taking over the coach's job. "I like coaching. But I don't have the experience that you and Barry have," I said. I would also have to get a coach's license, which I need to get next year. "I think you could do it. But you'd have to ask yourself if you'd be comfortable dealing with the characters that come in the gym from time to time," Steve said. Every time Steve has been absent, stray kids roam in along with adult oddballs. I've learned how to deal with them. I've even gotten better where the kids are concerned. I used to act so evil towards them; I guess I'm mellowing out as I get older.

My main concern is being accepted by the males. The guys who come there now are used to the middle-aged lady in the gym. I'm usually the only woman in there after all the other women have dropped out. Any new women coming into the gym would probably be comforted to see a female coach. The new guys who sign up might be a different story. I still remember one guy who was miffed because Steve asked me to teach him the basics the first day of a new session. The guy had the usual attitude of those who want to jump into the ring without learning what to do first. He also had a problem with a woman telling him anything, so he never came back after that day. As boxing is still extremely male dominated, I could see some challenges due to my gender if I became the coach.

I don't have a car, which is important for taking the fighters and their gear around to matches. I could rent a car when needed, I suppose. My father's probate case is still pending; if that money comes in there may be enough to buy a used car, I don't know.

The extra money would come in handy, that's for darn sure. There is some lead time before Steve resigns, so I will seriously give it some thought.

Silent Night, Boxing Night

I walked in the gym, and Steve was the only one there. "Where is everybody?" I asked. Steve shrugged his shoulders. A little while later, JJ came in, but that was it. Steve gave JJ pointers as JJ shadowboxed in the gym, and later they worked on pads. I went through my usual routine, but I put a little more energy into it than I usually do.

We closed up early, and Steve said, "It's nice when it's a small crowd." I like it too, because I have a lot more room to move around. I shadowboxed while switching between all three mirrors in the gym, and used more footwork. But like Steve said, it is also nice when more people are there, too. There's more energy in the gym when that happens.

Ellen and Eli

As I approached the door of the gym last night, I heard a baby crying. I knew it was Eli before I stepped inside the room. "Hi, Eli. What are you fussing about?" I asked. "It's because I won't pick him up," Steve explained. After he picked his son up, Eli did stop crying, as babies tend to do. Later, Eli had on a pair of Steve's gloves. It was funny because they looked humongous on the boy. I helped him put them on a couple of times when they slipped off.

Not very many in the gym last night, other than Eric, Mike and Jordan. Jordan noticed I had my portable CD with me and asked, "What kind of music do you listen to?" "I don't like a lot of new music, so I listen to the stuff that was out when I was a little girl and a teenager," I answered.

Ellen came in carrying luggage. She had returned from a trip. She looked great, and explained that "things will work" out with her and Steve's job search. I have no doubt that it will. They've worked too hard to make things happen.

Birthday Fight

Yesterday was my birthday, and I made plans to see the Mayweather/Hatton fight. Mike told me while we were in the gym Friday night that he was going to pop for the pay-per-view. He invited several people over including Steve and JJ.

Ricky Hatton, a tough guy from England, had Floyd Mayweather Jr. going for the first five rounds. Hatton was constantly moving around, and he popped Mayweather good several times. Unfortunately, Hatton stopped moving his head during the sixth round. Then, from that round on, Mayweather figured out his style and started timing him. Not long into the 10th round, Mayweather put a combination together and knocked Hatton down. Hatton got up as referee Joe Cortez ("I'm fair but I'm firm!") reached the count of eight. Mayweather caught Hatton again with another set of punches, and Hatton couldn't get up as easily. Cortez stopped the fight, Hatton's corner through the towel in, and Mayweather remained undefeated.

I was hoping that Hatton would win, just to bring cocky Mayweather down a notch. Hatton had been undefeated too, up until last night. The British fans were in force last night. They even had a guy with a drum and a few guys with trumpets playing in the audience. Ol' fine Tom Jones sang the UK's national anthem, and Tyrese sang the American national anthem; celebrities like Brad Pitt and Will Ferrell were in the audience. The Golden Boy Promotions executives -- Oscar De LaHoya, Bernard Hopkins, and "Sugar" Shane Mosley -- were in attendance, along with old school boxer Thomas "The Hit Man" Hearns. It was an exciting fight.

JJ did lose his fight at Brooks this past Friday night.

Jordan's friend, the recovering addict, came in Friday night, but wasn't able to work out like he wanted. Steve checked his receipt for the gym fee, and discovered the guy had signed up for the winter session, which doesn't begin until January.

Carla, who used to come to the gym, is getting married next month in a civil ceremony. She'll have a bigger ceremony in Hawaii in February. She was talking about coming back to the gym. The main reason she stopped going was because she moved farther away.

Missing Brooks

Steve had another interview last night, so the gym was closed. JJ, however, had a fight lined up at Brooks Park. Mike drove him out there. I would have gone, but I wouldn't have been home in time for Mike to pick me up. I'll find out later what the results were.

I hope both Mike and Steve didn't have much trouble driving yesterday. It snowed again, more ice formed on the ground and it was very cold. I saw a little dog tied outside of a mom & pop store on Sheridan after work. The poor thing was shivering and whimpering until its owner came out and picked it up.

Even though ESPN won't show boxing again until January, and I don't have HBO or Showtime, I keep forgetting that VS. has matches on every Thursday. They show them again later in the week, but I always seem to catch them by accident when I flipping channels.

Speaking of upcoming matches, I'm hoping that Steve will get the Mayweather Jr./Hatton match on pay-per-view this Saturday. If not, I'll find a bar where I can watch the fight. I had nothing else planned for my birthday, which is on Saturday, so seeing the fight will be a good activity.