Meeting Derek Jeter: A Class Act

There isn't much more that can be added to the life and career of Kalamazoo's own Derek Jeter.

Last night's final game at Yankee Stadium was truly a "Cinderella story." And as I watched the game, I found myself recalling the times I was privileged enough to, first meet him, and subsequently be part of various events associated with his "Turn 2 Foundation."

One of those times was a luncheon at the Radisson. I brought with me my oldest daughter Kaitlyn, who was 12 or 13 and was/is a huge fan.

At the time, much of Kaitlyn's life was consumed by playing softball, and I always joked that in about 10 years she and Derek would get married. Talk about the perfect son-in-law.

Anyway, we were told beforehand, "No autographs, and no pictures." But as the luncheon came to an end, I introduced my daughter to Derek. As it happened, she had a little camera dangling from her wrist, and he said, "Hey, why don't we take a picture together?  Ya know, just us ball players."

Well, I wanted to marry him after that!!!  What a class act.