Days of Brilliance & Kindness

First the Brilliance: Bernie Bickerstaff and the entire front office of the Charlotte Bobcats. How refreshing and exciting to see and root for an NBA team that drafts based on production, not possible potential. It's reminiscent of the philosophy of most NFL teams and employers in general. They look at your resume, not your IQ score. In the case of Raymond Felton and Sean May, their resumes include an NCAA championship and a proven track record of winning. One can debate whether they were drafted too early, but one cannot debate their achievements. Emeka Okafor, the Bobcats' 1st round pick last year, carried his NCAA championship talent to the NBA and won the Rookie of the Year award. If the Bobcats choose to build their team around proven winners with collegiate experience, I for one wholeheartedly support their business plan. My prediction: they'll be in the playoffs in 2007.

By the way, thank you Los Angeles basketball teams. The Lakers and Clippers both passed on May for two players, Bynum and Korolev respectively, whose names will only be known to those who read the box scores. Yes, in three to four years they may develop and provide an impact for their teams. However both the Lakers and Clippers possessed lottery picks -- that means they did not make the playoffs this year. Translation: they need help now, not three to four years from now. Don't be surprised if they are both, especially the Clippers, making lottery picks again next year.

Now for the Kindness: the good folks in the corporate office (and stores alike) at Port City Java. My wife wanted to give me a Port City Java apron for Father's Day, however they are not for sale. She emailed the corporate office and explained how much we enjoyed taking walks with the kids and occasional four-legged friends to our local PCJ when we lived in Wilmington, and how much we miss being able to do that here in Holly Springs. They graciously sent an apron to her and would not accept any payment for it. They told her simply hearing nice feedback from customers was enough. There are not any PCJ coffeehouses here yet, but here's to hoping there will be!

If you ever have a chance to stop in one, I would highly recommend a latte -- they're made with an extra shot of espresso. Believe me, you'll notice the difference in taste. Stop by the Port City Java at 2099 Market Street and have one for me.

This may only appeal to those interested in design -- okay "geeks" such as myself -- but check out their site if you enjoy interactive websites. It's well done and fun to surf.