May 11: Six months to Springfield

Nothing out of the ordinary to document in terms of shooting over the last couple of weeks, but now that we’ve reached the three-quarters mark in terms of the calendar — 18 months down, six to go — I’m thrilled to report that we’ve confirmed the Veterans Day venue for No. 1 million: the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass.

Thanks to John Evon, wellness supervisor at the nearby Hampden County Sheriff’s Department and the dude up there on the right, for making the connection, and thanks to Hall of Fame President and CEO John Doleva, on the left, for the invitation.

The three of us, along with Hall of Fame events manager Greg Procino, met two weeks ago to start planning, and while we’re just beginning to map out the details of how the day might look, we all agreed that this is to be an event focused on the service and sacrifice of Veterans and service men and women, not on hoop.

The Hall of Fame, an architectural marvel and world class basketball museum, speaks for itself, but basketball is merely a means to the end.

I’ve got very high hopes for an end that’s worthy of those we’re honoring.

For more on Hoops For Heroes, with a goal of 1 million made foul shots and $1 million raised for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, visit www.hoopsforheroes.com or contact Dave Cummings at 603-554-7855.