I just returned from the Bowling Writers Association of America (BWAA) Convention in Huntsville, Ala., and although I have been a member of the BWAA for several years, this was the first time I was able to make the convention. It won’t be my last.
Having spent nearly 40 years in law enforcement, there is very little that intimidates me. I don’t get real excited about things that sometimes excite others, and as I get older, I find it harder to get all wrapped up in trivial matters. But, having said that, I found that being among the greatest bowling writers in history, I was somewhat in awe.
Hall of Fame writers like John Archibald, Chuck Pezzano, and Dick Evans. Award-winning writers like Jim Dressel, John Jowdy, Tom Kouros, Don Gates, Bud Fisher, Don Snyder, Jerry Levine, and many, many more have you thinking about the glory days of bowling and the many stories these great writers have written and are always willing to tell you about.
Writers, editors, and publishers like Jim Goodwin, Pete Moore, and Jerri Bailey, who do so much for the sport of bowling in my home state of Texas.
Throughout the course of the week, I had the opportunity to discuss various topics with the greats of the game such as Dick Weber, Bill Lillard, Dick Ritger, and Marianne DiRupo.
I learned many things from this one trip to the convention. I learned that hall of fame writers have to defend their writing when it may not be exactly what others want to read. I learned that editors, publishers, and elected officers can receive a public flogging if their message isn’t exactly what others want to hear. I learned that ego is alive and well.
I learned that lifelong friendships still exist and are clearly evident in people like Jack Graziano and Al Spanjer, Chuck Pezzano and Frank Esposito.
I learned of the professionalism among the ranks of the BWAA. Their standard for accuracy over timeliness, fact over fiction, caring over sensationalism. Their unwavering stance on eligibility for their organization and ensuring that the highest standards are maintained among the ranks.
I saw bowling humor from a great illustrator and humorist, Walt Steinsiek. I was honored when he gave me an autographed copy of his book, A Funny Approach.
At the American Bowling Congress Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the Von Braun Civic Center, I had the pleasure of seeing the best of the best. I saw the audience give Dick Weber a standing ovation and then watched as he led the standing ovation for Joe Norris, bowling’s super senior.
I learned many things from this trip.
Rokuro "Fuzzy" Shimada gave an emotional speech during his induction.
Ernie Schlegel, struggling to get through the speech without losing his composure, told of his family values, bowling achievements, and love for the sport of bowling. I think he surprised a lot of people, but not me. I have always said he’s a classy guy, and he proved it that night.
So, what was this all about? Was it just a group of scribes sitting around telling war stories? No. It was a group of professionals concerned about the great sport of bowling. Concerned that many are pushing toward recreation rather than sport. Concerned that the television executives think there is no market for the PBA Senior Tour. Concerned that the International Olympic Committee will ignore bowling as an Olympic medal sport. Concerned about bowling’s integrity, the System of Bowling, Bowling Inc., and many more subjects. Their concerns were voiced to all the sponsors, and many were put to rest by speakers on hand from the various integers.
Did I enjoy it? It was a great time. It’s too bad I had to travel nearly 1,000 miles to meet two of my editors, but it was worth it. Listening to the great stories of Pete Moore was worth the trip.
I am ready for Reno in 1998. Told my boss I intend to be there, and I am looking forward to being with all those great professionals.
Thanks for letting me be part of your association.