corner 11

To get a feel for the corner read my profile.

The corner guys took things seriously trying to improve themselves. For example, in pitching pennies or later years maybe nickles or dimes, guys would work in putting a spin on the coin so that it would stop dead on the sidewalk and would not roll. It was not easy and took work. It seems that more effort was put in to the coins than any school subject. Some guys had specialties. One ,JZ, no names, was a little older than me and had a reputation as being a really good gin rummy player. That was our game of choice in 7 and 8 grade. poker somewhat after that, I thought I was good but you do not go against his rep., in addition he was supposed to be a very astute gambler. When playing softball his position was pitcher as his rep. was a very good pitcher. The younger giys would not question the rep. of an older guy even if he was just a little bit older. Ace was our age but he was very precise in what he did. He was confident in his abilities, and I might add deservedly so. I think our friend [M] would agree. Ace patrolled left field and he knew he would catch up and catch any ball hit his way. Also, when shooting pool he was very deliberate. He would take big quick steps around the table sizing up his future shots and position, when he was satisfied he would grab the chalk, chalk up his cue and take his shot. Out of all our guys Ace was the only one that took on the game of billiards and had to play with the older , older men. Billiards was to pool like chess is to checkers or candyland. Ace was confident enough, to feel he could get a handle on the game. The rest of us did not want to put out any effort we didn't have to, shooting pool for whatever money we settled on, was enough action we needed . Remember, from 7th grade on I do not remember any of these endeavors, except PG stuff, for fun of it. There had to be some action to it.