The magnificent Mr. Ressler

J's World, by Jeremiah Bartz

Casey Ressler is an all-around good guy.

As much as I like to harass my bald partner in crime, I have to admit that he is "good people."

He is generally likeable, as most people will say, and will stand around and talk to anyone, unless of course they are a University of Michigan fan.

Since Ressler has been at this newspaper for an eternity, almost nine years, doing everything from the cops and courts beat, to sports, to his duties as the valley life editor, he has become pretty well known in our community.

Even since he decided to trade in his receding hairline, for the completely bald look, people still recognize Ressler when he is out and about.

I knew all this, but until Friday night I did not realize I was working with such a community icon.

Friday night was the Potato Bowl, at Wasilla High School. Since both of us are football fans and graduates of Valley schools, the Potato Bowl is one event where the

Frontiersman is well represented.

I had conned Ressler into being my photo boy for the game, so I could concentrate on the action and my story.

During the second quarter, while Ressler and I were roaming the Wasilla sidelines, Ressler was recognized.

Wasilla public address announcer Paul Cassette began by talking about the media that were in the attendance, pointing out that the Frontiersman, the Anchorage Daily News and KTUU were all at the game.

Then he decided to welcome back Ressler. In front of a rowdy homecoming crowd, Cassette went on to say, "And back from the past, standing at the 50-yard line, Casey Ressler."

To my surprise, there were cheers from the crowd. My bald friend was having his day in the spotlight.

It has been nearly five years and there have been about 10 sports editors since Ressler had the position, but he is still

remembered.

During halftime Cassette decided to point out Ressler again, but this time telling him over the loud speaker to put on a hat, the reflection off his bald head is blinding the crowd.

Later after the halftime presentation of the Full Monty, a trio of streakers, the homecoming floats passed Ressler and I by, and a freshman dropped a helmet off the float.

Being the nice guy that he is, Ressler, handed the helmet back to the youngster, and the student replied, "thank you Mr. Ressler."

What a guy.

With all of this recognition, maybe it is Ressler that should be running for mayor. I'd vote for him, if I can be his campaign manager.

Jeremiah Bartz is the sports editor for the Frontiersman. One day he hopes to be loved by the community as much as Casey Ressler is.