but I wouldn’t expect anything less from hockey guys, they’ve got class and respect, well forget about Avery, more so than any other sport.

But I’ll say it again – for Ryan’s sake (read the story), I’m glad the Blue Jackets won. I’ll settle for the extra point – life and virtue are more important.

On October 29, Jody Shelley did a signing at the Sharks Store. I teach, so I arrived a little late (5:15ish). Partially because he fought the night before against Pittsburgh, the line was packed. At 5:50, they turned people away, since 6pm was approaching. I was part of a group of diehards that toughed it out. I peaked through the window, and Shelley was looking out our way. I could see his lips mouth, “How many are there?” He motioned for them to let us in.

It gets better – a group of boys were in front of me waiting for Shelley’s autograph. When they got to him, he asked if they had done their homework that night. They hadn’t. He said he was pleased they wanted to see him, but that homework is way more important than a signature. His tone was impressively serious. As a teacher, I couldn’t agree with Shelley more.

When we got Shelley last season, I joked with my friends that he was like a neanderthal on the ice (I meant that as a compliment). How I regret those words now.

And when the CBJ were in town, I’d join the hecklers in booing him, hoping the Sheriff would knock him out cold.

Now Parker is an FA MIA, Stuart has a ring with the Wings and Jody Shelley dons the teal. My how things have changed. He’s won me over and I can understand why he was a fan fave in Columbus. He and his wife are good people.

(I promise never to make fun of his name, ever again)