Jim Cramer talks about life, sports, and the pursuit of greatness.
by Bill Conlin
Assignment: Do a piece on Mad Money’s Jim Cramer. Hmm? I remind the assignment editor I write sports, not finance. To me, “calls” are something umpires make — safe, out, ball, strike. But I’m told interviewing Cramer won’t be a problem because he’s read my columns since he was a kid. And I’ll be honest, Jim’s rap is addictive, particularly when you’ve just cashed in on a couple of his plays.
Jim Cramer stands still about as long as a Phil Niekro knuckleball. He’s so fast that for four seasons — 1971 through ’74 — Jim and I worked together and I never saw him once. OK, I was in the press box as the Phillies’ beat writer for the Philadelphia Daily News. Jim was in the notorious Veterans Stadium 700 Level vending for Nilon Bros. Small coincidence.
|
|
|
|
| Venus & Serena Building An Endorsements Empire |
|
FROM BIG TIME SERVES TO BIG BUSINESS, THE WILLIAMS SISTERS PACK A POWERFUL PUNCH
by Rhea Cabinta
On the court Serena Williams is ranked as the third best female tennis player in the world. Venus is No. 8. Venus, who was previously ranked No. 1, has won 16 Grand Slam titles – seven of those in singles. Serena is currently the top ranked American female and a former No. 1 ranked player as well. She has eight Grand Slam singles victories and is the last tennis player – male or female – to hold all four Grand Slam singles titles at the same time. And, the sisters just brought home the glory of Olympic gold in doubles from Beijing.
However, as impressive as their on-court accolades have been, their business ventures and success at parlaying their tennis popularity into fashion and pop culture fame is beyond remarkable. They first drew attention for their unbelievable talent and the flare they brought to the sport. Now, they are so recognizable that the use of their last name isn’t necessary. If you simply say the names Venus and Serena, people know who you are talking about - they know the Williams sisters brand.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
