Barry told me yesterday there's a hiring freeze at the Chicago Park District. Earlier in the day, I saw that Steve's job was no longer listed among the open positions on the park district's web site. I assumed they had begun the hiring process. I hadn't been called, but that was okay. I just want the adult boxing gym to re-open. Little did I know what was really happening. It's anybody's guess as to when the adult boxing program will resume.
It's been a couple a months, and I'm concerned about having been away from the gym for so long. I could go sign up for boxing at one of the other fieldhouses that offer it. However, Loyola Park is the closest one to me. Public transportation being what it is, makes it damn hard to get around anywhere else these days. Now that I've been working part-time at my church -- which I can walk to -- I have little patience for trains and buses.
I plan to check out the Chicago Boxing Club this weekend, but I already know my limited budget can't cover their fees. Honestly, signing up for boxing at another park district fieldhouse would also put a bit of a strain on my budget.
I'm at a loss as to what to do right now. Regardless of the fact that I'm not allowed to compete, I would still like to do the workout. I also need to be plugged into the Chicago boxing community so I can go for my amateur coach's license. I don't want to give up boxing completely because of current circumstances.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Olympic Punches
The American boxing team hasn't been doing very well in the 2008 Olympics. Part of the problem is the scoring process. The same process was used at the World Boxing Championships back in October of last year. It seems to be highly restrictive. The referees were stopping the action for every and anything. It didn't make for a lot of exciting bouts.
I read where there is a push to have women's boxing at the next summer Olympics. They should have been included in this year's events, as far as I'm concerned. Seems like every time I have turned on the event, diving, swimming and volleyball have been featured (boxing is regulated to 2 or 3 in the morning). I have much respect for Michael Phelps, and the American women's volleyball players who won a gold medal last night (playing in the rain, at that), but it would be nice to see boxing, even if it has already happened, earlier than the wee hours of the morning.
All the talk about MMA vs. boxing is kind of silly right now, seeing how boxing is an Olympic sport. I like MMA, but I doubt that sport will ever be considered for inclusion in the Games. Boxing still has a nobility about it that MMA has yet to acquire.
I read where there is a push to have women's boxing at the next summer Olympics. They should have been included in this year's events, as far as I'm concerned. Seems like every time I have turned on the event, diving, swimming and volleyball have been featured (boxing is regulated to 2 or 3 in the morning). I have much respect for Michael Phelps, and the American women's volleyball players who won a gold medal last night (playing in the rain, at that), but it would be nice to see boxing, even if it has already happened, earlier than the wee hours of the morning.
All the talk about MMA vs. boxing is kind of silly right now, seeing how boxing is an Olympic sport. I like MMA, but I doubt that sport will ever be considered for inclusion in the Games. Boxing still has a nobility about it that MMA has yet to acquire.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Slow Going
Steve sent his new contact information to me the other day. He stated that Buffalo, NY appears to be a very charming, at least in the summer.
Which I could say the same for Rogers Park, which has experienced a run of street fights all summer long. I saw one in the middle of the street a couple of weeks ago, down the way from a new field house that just opened on Howard Street. Yesterday, I got to work (I've been bumped up to part-time church secretary for the moment), and the custodian pointed out gang graffiti that had been placed on the side of the church, on someone's car nearby, and the apartment building just south of the church.
I called Graffiti Blasters to come clean it off. No telling when they will show up. They'll probably act faster than Alderman Moore's office will. Pastor, who has no love for the alderman, asked me to call there. I was switched to the voice mail of a staffer who has yet to get back to me about the problem.
Still no word from the Chicago Park District about the boxing coach job at Loyola Park. The adult boxing program has missed a lot of opportunities to appear at Park District and outside boxing shows this summer. The Park District boxing shows continue until the beginning of December. Even if the program reopens for the fall, there may not be any fighters ready and available to participate in the shows that are left.
Which I could say the same for Rogers Park, which has experienced a run of street fights all summer long. I saw one in the middle of the street a couple of weeks ago, down the way from a new field house that just opened on Howard Street. Yesterday, I got to work (I've been bumped up to part-time church secretary for the moment), and the custodian pointed out gang graffiti that had been placed on the side of the church, on someone's car nearby, and the apartment building just south of the church.
I called Graffiti Blasters to come clean it off. No telling when they will show up. They'll probably act faster than Alderman Moore's office will. Pastor, who has no love for the alderman, asked me to call there. I was switched to the voice mail of a staffer who has yet to get back to me about the problem.
Still no word from the Chicago Park District about the boxing coach job at Loyola Park. The adult boxing program has missed a lot of opportunities to appear at Park District and outside boxing shows this summer. The Park District boxing shows continue until the beginning of December. Even if the program reopens for the fall, there may not be any fighters ready and available to participate in the shows that are left.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Granddad's Punches
Haven't posted here in awhile, and I apologize to the regular readers about that. Nothing much going on with the Loyola Park Boxing gym, as the adult boxing program is still closed. I did receive a letter from the Chicago Park District stating that I made the list of qualified candidates for Steve's old job. That does not guarantee that I will be interviewed, however.
I often wonder where my maternal grandfather trained when he was a boxer. My mother told me that he regularly trained at a boxing gym located somewhere on Chicago's west side. I have no idea what gym that would have been.
He was planning to be a professional boxer. Then he met my grandmother. After they decided to get married, Granddad hung up his gloves. He didn't believe that being a boxer would pay him enough money to support a family. From what my late uncles told me, Granddad was a good fighter. He taught all of them how to box, and my uncles grew up appreciating the sport.
I've been thinking about doing some research to figure out what boxing gyms were popular in Chicago in the early part of last century.
I often wonder where my maternal grandfather trained when he was a boxer. My mother told me that he regularly trained at a boxing gym located somewhere on Chicago's west side. I have no idea what gym that would have been.
He was planning to be a professional boxer. Then he met my grandmother. After they decided to get married, Granddad hung up his gloves. He didn't believe that being a boxer would pay him enough money to support a family. From what my late uncles told me, Granddad was a good fighter. He taught all of them how to box, and my uncles grew up appreciating the sport.
I've been thinking about doing some research to figure out what boxing gyms were popular in Chicago in the early part of last century.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Looking For A Model
I applied for Steve's old job. Mailed off the application a few days ago. It may be awhile before I hear anything back about it. In the meantime, the adult boxing gym remains closed.
I did stop in the field house last night in the hopes of catching up with a woman who had expressed interest in the gym. She takes another class in the field house. I saw the instructor of that class, who told me that she hadn't been around much. She's a reporter, and she had a big assignment out of town. He told me he would mention that I stopped in when she comes to class again.
She had participated in a modeling competition show that ran on cable TV. Unfortunately, she didn't win. When I run into her again, I'll tell her that she presented herself very well.
I did stop in the field house last night in the hopes of catching up with a woman who had expressed interest in the gym. She takes another class in the field house. I saw the instructor of that class, who told me that she hadn't been around much. She's a reporter, and she had a big assignment out of town. He told me he would mention that I stopped in when she comes to class again.
She had participated in a modeling competition show that ran on cable TV. Unfortunately, she didn't win. When I run into her again, I'll tell her that she presented herself very well.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Listed Online
Just checked the Chicago Park District's web site, and lo and behold. . .Steve's old boxing coach job is now posted. I'll see if the field house has job applications on hand either on Saturday or Monday, and I'll pick one up. If I run into any of the guys who had expressed interest in the position, I'll tell them about it also.
I was worried that it wouldn't appear until much later. After all, it is now July, and Steve has been officially gone since May. Perhaps the rest of the summer session can be salvaged if some one is hired soon.
I was worried that it wouldn't appear until much later. After all, it is now July, and Steve has been officially gone since May. Perhaps the rest of the summer session can be salvaged if some one is hired soon.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
The Decision For Now
Just talked to Mary. . .we agreed that until a permanent coach is in place, the adult boxing gym should remain closed. Both of us had concerns about safety, people roaming in and out, and people trying to get free workouts. Mary is hoping that the fact the gym is temporarily closed will place urgency on the Park District's human resources department to hire someone for the position. The last time both Mary and I checked, Steve's old job is still not posted online.
Hopefully, it won't be too long before things are up and running again.
Hopefully, it won't be too long before things are up and running again.
Sunday, June 08, 2008
The Closing
Friday night, which was the last night of the Spring session, was quiet. Foster and Carla came in. Later, Manny came in for a little bit with his little daughter.
Mary and I were talking earlier that evening about how to handle the upcoming Summer session. Steve's job has still not been listed online yet. Mary was hoping that maybe it'll show up on Monday. Even if it does, it's going to be awhile for the applicants to get through the hiring process.
Judging by the past, summer is usually the time the gym has experienced the most problems with people thinking they can just roam into the gym. The fact that word has gotten around that Steve is gone has kept a lot of people away. It has also given the idea to others that they can come in and get free workouts. Jordan was one example. He wasn't even signed up for the spring session at all, and he stumbled in the other week. Jermaine's friend Antoine didn't cause any problems when he came in. Mary wasn't happy when it appeared that Antoine had been told he could come to the gym for free. I know the guys who have come in for awhile, like Jermaine, don't mean any harm when they invite their friends to the gym. However, Mary doesn't want anyone in there who hasn't paid.
When Steve was there, he would keep the gym open during the week or weeks in-between sessions. I opted not to come in next week, so the gym will be closed. After that, it's up in the air. I don't want to disappoint the guys who have been coming in for awhile, even those who come on-and-off. But in the absence of a coach, and the fact that attendance is normally down in the gym during warm weather, closing temporarily is looking like the best option. In the interest of safety and keeping drama down, it might be better not to give some hard-headed youths or strange adults a reason to be in the gym on Wednesday and Friday nights.
The guys who are serious about the sport have gone to other gyms for workouts and sparring on other days in the past. They'll continue to do so. I've spent time up at JABB myself, and I plan to check out Chicago Boxing. Those who were aligned with other gyms but came up to Loyola sometimes -- like Paul and Brian, for example -- will continue on at their home gyms.
It bothers me, but I can't think of another solution right now.
Mary and I were talking earlier that evening about how to handle the upcoming Summer session. Steve's job has still not been listed online yet. Mary was hoping that maybe it'll show up on Monday. Even if it does, it's going to be awhile for the applicants to get through the hiring process.
Judging by the past, summer is usually the time the gym has experienced the most problems with people thinking they can just roam into the gym. The fact that word has gotten around that Steve is gone has kept a lot of people away. It has also given the idea to others that they can come in and get free workouts. Jordan was one example. He wasn't even signed up for the spring session at all, and he stumbled in the other week. Jermaine's friend Antoine didn't cause any problems when he came in. Mary wasn't happy when it appeared that Antoine had been told he could come to the gym for free. I know the guys who have come in for awhile, like Jermaine, don't mean any harm when they invite their friends to the gym. However, Mary doesn't want anyone in there who hasn't paid.
When Steve was there, he would keep the gym open during the week or weeks in-between sessions. I opted not to come in next week, so the gym will be closed. After that, it's up in the air. I don't want to disappoint the guys who have been coming in for awhile, even those who come on-and-off. But in the absence of a coach, and the fact that attendance is normally down in the gym during warm weather, closing temporarily is looking like the best option. In the interest of safety and keeping drama down, it might be better not to give some hard-headed youths or strange adults a reason to be in the gym on Wednesday and Friday nights.
The guys who are serious about the sport have gone to other gyms for workouts and sparring on other days in the past. They'll continue to do so. I've spent time up at JABB myself, and I plan to check out Chicago Boxing. Those who were aligned with other gyms but came up to Loyola sometimes -- like Paul and Brian, for example -- will continue on at their home gyms.
It bothers me, but I can't think of another solution right now.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Surprise, There's A Girl
Know how I know that I love boxing? I can have fun in the gym even when I'm not training.
Earlier this afternoon, I stopped into the gym. The kids and teens are in the gym on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Barry asked me to stop by sometimes when they are there. Normally, Barry doesn't have many adults hanging around when the kids are in the gym. The adults aren't allowed to work out with the kids (except for Nate Sr., who held pads for Nate Jr. today). It can be a distraction.
Some of the kids I knew and/or recognized like Man-Man, Nate Jr., and Kenny. There were a few other kids there that I hadn't seen before. I was surprised to see a girl working out. She looked no older than eight or nine years old. The girl was keeping up with the boys, and she was the only female in attendance. It reminded me of all the times when I was usually the only woman in the gym. There have been a few girls in the youth program, usually teens, but they didn't seem to hang around for long. Today was the first time I have seen a little girl in the gym.
Barry is very good with the kids and teens. He keeps his eye on everything that goes on. He had the younger kids going through circuit training, where they switched between equipment and various exercises. The kids under 12 finished training by 5:00 PM, and then it was time to work with the teenagers. Kenny, Man-Man, and a kid named Steve sparred (Nate Sr. stepped in at one point to spar with Man-Man).
I learned that a former Loyola boxer named Turan had his first pro fight recently. He has another coming up soon in California. Barry was going to check the stats later to see how he did.
Earlier this afternoon, I stopped into the gym. The kids and teens are in the gym on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Barry asked me to stop by sometimes when they are there. Normally, Barry doesn't have many adults hanging around when the kids are in the gym. The adults aren't allowed to work out with the kids (except for Nate Sr., who held pads for Nate Jr. today). It can be a distraction.
Some of the kids I knew and/or recognized like Man-Man, Nate Jr., and Kenny. There were a few other kids there that I hadn't seen before. I was surprised to see a girl working out. She looked no older than eight or nine years old. The girl was keeping up with the boys, and she was the only female in attendance. It reminded me of all the times when I was usually the only woman in the gym. There have been a few girls in the youth program, usually teens, but they didn't seem to hang around for long. Today was the first time I have seen a little girl in the gym.
Barry is very good with the kids and teens. He keeps his eye on everything that goes on. He had the younger kids going through circuit training, where they switched between equipment and various exercises. The kids under 12 finished training by 5:00 PM, and then it was time to work with the teenagers. Kenny, Man-Man, and a kid named Steve sparred (Nate Sr. stepped in at one point to spar with Man-Man).
I learned that a former Loyola boxer named Turan had his first pro fight recently. He has another coming up soon in California. Barry was going to check the stats later to see how he did.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Annoyance Free Workout
I was ready to snap on Jordan if he did anything out-of-pocket tonight. Fortunately for him, he didn't show up to the gym. I was in the gym alone for about ten minutes when Jermaine came in. Jermaine invited a friend of his named Antoine in, and Carla and Tommy came in.
I had a good workout tonight. Not having to stand on my feet cleaning for four hours at church definately gave me a big burst of energy. Instead, I had an interview for a job that I doubt that I'll get. It was for an office manager at a medical office. The head doctor in the place called several people in for an interview at once. He came out and gave us all an overview of the job, and what was expected. Then another person took us in one by one to interview us for a few minutes a piece. I hadn't been to an interview like that in a couple of decades. That was for some boiler room sales position, if I remember correctly.
In between working out, Antoine asked me to show him some techniques. I was more than happy to help him out. It was refreshing to work with a guy who appeared not to be bothered by taking boxing tips from a female.
I had a good workout tonight. Not having to stand on my feet cleaning for four hours at church definately gave me a big burst of energy. Instead, I had an interview for a job that I doubt that I'll get. It was for an office manager at a medical office. The head doctor in the place called several people in for an interview at once. He came out and gave us all an overview of the job, and what was expected. Then another person took us in one by one to interview us for a few minutes a piece. I hadn't been to an interview like that in a couple of decades. That was for some boiler room sales position, if I remember correctly.
In between working out, Antoine asked me to show him some techniques. I was more than happy to help him out. It was refreshing to work with a guy who appeared not to be bothered by taking boxing tips from a female.
Monday, June 02, 2008
Wii and A Dinner
Mike took Steve, JJ and myself out for dinner earlier this evening. We all met up at Mike's condo. Brian stopped by for awhile, but couldn't join us to eat. He had to pick his girlfriend up from the airport.
Mike has a Wii game. I've been intrigued by those, but never saw one close up until today. We started off with the boxing game, where I was beat down by Steve a few times. The next game was tennis, where Steve, who plays tennis a lot, did well against Brian, myself and Mike (JJ was using Mike's computer to look up boxing info on the Internet). The last game was bowling, where to my amazement, I beat the guys. The Wii is actually good exercise, because you are not sitting to play, like with Play Station or XBox. You're moving around with the controls in your hand, and working up a good sweat.
Mike presented Steve with a very nice warm up suit, which had "Golden Gloves, 5 Champions" embroidered on the back of it. The five champs represent JJ, who won the Golden Gloves twice; Mike, who won this year; Mort, who won a couple of years ago; and Antonio, who won a trophy last year.
Brian revealed that he waited a week to see the doctor after hurting his thumb while sparring with JJ some time ago. I didn't realize that Gio had pulled on Brian's thumb in order to ease some of his discomfort that day. Brian's thumb is broken in two places, and he has to wear a cast for a few weeks. He's hoping that it heals up well enough before the Ringside Boxing Tournament, which is in August. That's the second time that JJ has accidently broken bones on somebody during sparring. The other guy who was hurt was Josh, and that was a few years ago. Josh had his nose broken.
We watched a few fights: part of the EliteXC MMA special that aired a couple of days ago on network TV; JJ at the Illinois State Tournament; when Jeff was a contender at the Golden Gloves back in 2004. After that, we went to dinner at an Argentinian steak house. Very good, although I was stuffed and couldn't eat everything. I ended up leaving half of some very delicious flan dessert behind, and taking half of a filet mignon home.
Steve and Ellen did find a home in Buffalo, NY, big enough for them and little Eli. From how Steve described it, it sounds like it sits on a very cool, tree-lined street. The couple will have a BBQ on the beach here later this month, another going away party.
Mike has a Wii game. I've been intrigued by those, but never saw one close up until today. We started off with the boxing game, where I was beat down by Steve a few times. The next game was tennis, where Steve, who plays tennis a lot, did well against Brian, myself and Mike (JJ was using Mike's computer to look up boxing info on the Internet). The last game was bowling, where to my amazement, I beat the guys. The Wii is actually good exercise, because you are not sitting to play, like with Play Station or XBox. You're moving around with the controls in your hand, and working up a good sweat.
Mike presented Steve with a very nice warm up suit, which had "Golden Gloves, 5 Champions" embroidered on the back of it. The five champs represent JJ, who won the Golden Gloves twice; Mike, who won this year; Mort, who won a couple of years ago; and Antonio, who won a trophy last year.
Brian revealed that he waited a week to see the doctor after hurting his thumb while sparring with JJ some time ago. I didn't realize that Gio had pulled on Brian's thumb in order to ease some of his discomfort that day. Brian's thumb is broken in two places, and he has to wear a cast for a few weeks. He's hoping that it heals up well enough before the Ringside Boxing Tournament, which is in August. That's the second time that JJ has accidently broken bones on somebody during sparring. The other guy who was hurt was Josh, and that was a few years ago. Josh had his nose broken.
We watched a few fights: part of the EliteXC MMA special that aired a couple of days ago on network TV; JJ at the Illinois State Tournament; when Jeff was a contender at the Golden Gloves back in 2004. After that, we went to dinner at an Argentinian steak house. Very good, although I was stuffed and couldn't eat everything. I ended up leaving half of some very delicious flan dessert behind, and taking half of a filet mignon home.
Steve and Ellen did find a home in Buffalo, NY, big enough for them and little Eli. From how Steve described it, it sounds like it sits on a very cool, tree-lined street. The couple will have a BBQ on the beach here later this month, another going away party.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, May 30, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, May 23, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, May 09, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, May 05, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, May 02, 2008
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.
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.
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