End Of Innocence

"They're all right. They haven't stuck a knife in me yet."

While Kison was talking, two reporters directly under his nose began arguing over who had rights to the next question. The argument grew louder and louder until Kison broke off in mid-sentence and rolled his eyes heavenward. Kison was asked if his childhood dreams had come true.

"Yes, and then some."

For a third time a writer asked him about his wedding.

"Why is everyone making such a big deal about the wedding?" Kison said. "If I can't make it back to Pittsburgh Sunday we'll have to change it, that's all."

"How often do you shave?"

"Every day," replied Kison.

"Do you need to?"

"I wouldn't shave if I didn't." Suddenly there was a commotion by the telephone. One of the Pirate trainers motioned for Kison to answer the phone. While Bruce talked the writers edged closer. Someone said, "He's talking to President Nixon." Kison hung up and returned.

"Who were you talking to, Bruce?"