Friends,

Another year, and unfortunately, yet again, the same old
story.... I must admit that I did have my hopes up, but I had
mentally prepared myself before I logged into the MLB.com website a
little after 2 PM EST today. Although my first impressions of the
news and voting committee were of anger and distain, quickly I
reminded myself that I am quite sure that if Gil were alive, he may
be disappointed, but NEVER do I believe he would be angry, or show
any feeling of distain or resentment towards his "brothers on and off
the field" of the baseball fraternity. The best way for us to honor
the good memory of Gil and continue to positively promote his case is
to deter ourselves of having negative thoughts. Heck, if Gil were
still here, even though he would heartedly appreciate our efforts, he
would probably not want us going through the trouble we are for his
cause. To Gil, our efforts and support would probably mean more than
a plaque on the wall anyway........

With this said, PLEASE DO NOT GIVE UP!!!!! I sit here pondering
what we can do next time to increase his vote total. I must admit I
am disturbed with the vote totals. As someone said earlier, as time
goes on, the people that remember and push for Gil's enshrinement
will probably decrease (although I hope I am wrong about
this....perhaps this is what we can work on in the future), so how
will he get those additional 11 votes next time, and even maintain
the votes he did receive this time????? It may be doubtful that 11
voters will change their vote the next time....although a lot can
change in 2 years. It is comforting somewhat that Gil was the top
vote getter.....this helps some! Perhaps the voting pool is too
diluted......maybe a vote on 10 individuals would serve us
better...who knows, and even if it would, I doubt there will be any
changes in the voting procedures.

Anyway, I am rambling now....thanks for your time in reading this,
and PLEASE KEEP THE FAITH....STEADY THE COURSE!!!!! To all
supporters, especially Joe, THANKS FOR EVERYTHING.....

Sincerely,
-Tres Bradshaw
Greensboro, NC