A PREMATURE YAY? by ST

Really pleased about what we're hearing from the NFL negotiations. Looks like a deal will happen, even if it's a week or two down the road. Did some reading on the history of union/owner negotiations. If one side offers up an irrational request, that's dangerous, but it appears all are at least operating on a rational level. I'm really happy the bosses have bagged the 18 games schedule. That was purely ridiculous and I can't see any way around more injuries, shorter careers and a detriment to the product. The players seem to get a limit on rookie salaries is important. With the salary cap, teams can become negatively hamstrung by a bad deal given to an unproven young guy. The Salary cap itself was an issue. From what I've read, the league will mandate teams must spend close to 100% of that cap number. That's a beautiful thing. In Major League Baseball, where no cap exists, franchises like the Pirates take in their haul from TV and licensing but spend a minimal amount and don't put a competitive team on the field(so far they have this year but please!). So all is good and I'm looking forward to a whirlwind free agency period and the signing of draft picks once the new collective bargaining agreement is signed.
I enjoyed the reaction of Serena Williams after winning her 1st round match at Wimbledon yesterday(Tue). Remember, she'd gotten a serious scare with that lung clot. It had been almost a year since she played in a Grand Slam event. Just 2 1/2 months ago the docs green lighted her to crank it up again to play. After winning the 1st round of a major for the 44th time in 44 tries she welled with tears, which evolved into all out bawling. Shows she has an appreciation of being able to do this. Fellow players praised her as well for not being a machine. She's always brought charisma and an entertainment value to the table and has made women's tennis fun to watch.
I'm off to NYC for my family vacation after today's show and will get back at it on Tuesday July 5th. Justin and Grant will guide the ship. I'll certainly be checking in here and perhaps a call from Yankee Stadium on the evening of July 29th. Be well and thanks for all your support!