Gary's StoryStack
Here's a pithy P.S.
Several readers have asked me how I know the story of Gary Ales, the St. Paul schoolteacher I wrote about in my latest post — the man who loved his students so much that he selflessly devoted himself to their personal growth.
We met when I was producing a documentary on the values in big-time college football. The University of Minnesota’s coaching staff was conducting its annual clinic for high school and college coaches from all over the Upper Midwest.
Nine hundred coaches showed up at the field house. One came over to me and called me “Baldy.” I tore the painter’s cap off his head, revealing that he, too, could be called “Baldy,” and that’s when our long-lasting friendship began.
What I didn’t tell you in the story I wrote about him is that he and his wife, Jean, a gifted artist, for many years created graphic signs he posted throughout the school, boosting kids’ confidence and aspirations, encouraging them to work hard, succeed, and be happy. Those postings permeated the school.
Occasionally, Gary and Jean made a sign that would cause any kid to take special notice, to wit:
“Teenagers . . . if you are tired of being hassled by unreasonable parents, now is the time for action!!! Leave home and pay your own way while you still know everything!”
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Speaking of values in big-time college football . . . it’s been 40 years since I made that documentary, and the biggest change in that field has been the legitimizing of paying athletes to attend a college to play football or basketball. This practice has corrupted sports and people involved.
My documentary shows coaches speaking frankly about the price they pay in trying to create winners, and players in quiet moments, without helmets on, reflecting intimately on their aspirations and the sacrifices they have to make to succeed.
You can see the program for free by going online to:
tpt.org
That’s the website of Twin Cities Public Television. Enter the title — Rose Bowl or Bust — in the SEARCH box, scroll down to the title, click and watch. It’s not only revealing; it’s also entertaining.
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Please spread the word, and please encourage others to subscribe to my Substack:
garygilson.substack.com
Thank you, and cheers,
Gary