I was watching Black College Quiz today, and during the multiple choice round was a question about which of the listed Negro League players was known for his tremendous speed.  I knew the answer was James “Cool Papa” Bell.  How did I know?  Because TB did a research project on him in school last year.

Last year in school the students had to do a report on a famous Missourian, so TB chose to research a black athlete from St. Louis.  While his decision wasn’t maligned, neither was it one of the standard topics most of the children picked.  His teacher was concerned he wouldn’t be able to find enough information about Cool Papa Bell to do justice to the research project.  Fortunately TB stuck with his plan, and we all learned a few things in the process.