Tri-C Insider Volume 303

Tue, 22 May 2012 18:25:00 +0000

Volume 303

(All opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author. In no way does this reflect the opinions of members of the Tri-C Youth Athletic Board or any others affiliated with the program.)

Over the years in this column we have talked about a number of different subjects surrounding sports. For a few weeks, during this season, we hope to bring up a topic that may interest some of you. Sports, in general, and baseball in particular bring up a lot of debates over which team or player was superior to another.

As mentioned many times before, baseball is not just a game, but an entire part of the American experience. During the past century it fed and led this nation in many, many ways. If history is important, which is a no brainer, then, baseball is a most important part of what our nation is.

Briefly, what we are going to try to do is give a short history of a particular MLB team and this writer will list his choices for an all-time team for the franchise. We truly hope you enjoy and feel free to comment on agreements or disagreements with each column.

Our featured team this week is the New York Yankees. No team in baseball has had a more heralded history than the New York Yankees. No baseball fan is without an opinion on the Yankees. Feelings run strong on those that love or hate the team. Even though this writer would more closely fit into the latter group, one must respect the record this team has amassed. The Yankees have won twenty-seven World Series and 40 pennants. No team even comes close to matching that figure.

As mentioned in a recent Insider, the Yankees began as a franchise as the Baltimore Orioles in 1901. In 1903 they moved to New York and were known as the Highlanders and did not become the Yankees until 1913. A few sportswriters and fans had called them the Yankees for a number of years prior to the name being officially changed to the Yankees.

After 21 years of floundering near or at the bottom, in 1920 the Yankees purchased Babe Ruth from the Red Sox and the rest is history. During Ruth’s era with the Yankees they finished second five times, won seven pennants, and four World Series. The 1927 Yankees is regarded by many as the best team ever assembled.

After Ruth, the Bronx Bombers still dominated with players such as Lou Gehrig, Bill Dickey, Tony Lazzeri, and a graceful and classy young player named Joe DiMaggio. Even after the former three had retired the Yankees went on to even greater performance records on the field. From 1947-1964 they won 15 pennants and 10 World Series. Players such a Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, Elston Howard, Yogi Berra, and Whitey Ford led this dynasty.

From 1965-1975 was a down time for the organization. Two of those seasons they even had to share Shea Stadium with the Mets while old Yankee Stadium was being renovated. The Yankees came back between the years of 1976-1981. During those years they were led by players such as Thurman Munson, Reggie Jackson, Ron Guidry, Willie Randolph, and Craig Nettles. After not making the playoffs between 1982-1995, they roared back with Derek Jeter, Bernie Williams, and Mariano Rivera, among others, leading the way. Since that time the Yankees have been the dominant team in baseball. In recent years their rivalry with the Red Sox has been the focus of much of baseball.

The Yankees won their most recent World Series in 2010 and even though age and injuries have them currently at the bottom of the AL East, their powerful hitting will make them a threat to any team they play this year.

R. Norman’s All Time Yankee Team:

Right- handed starting pitcher: Red Ruffing

Runners up include Mel Stottlemyre, Allie Reynolds, Waite Hoyt, and Bob Shawkey.

Left-handed starting pitcher: Whitey Ford

Runners up include Andy Pettite, Lefty Gomez, Herb Pennock, and Ron Guidry.

Relief pitcher: Mariano Rivera

No contest here. Rivera is simply the best ever at his particular role. Dave Righetti and Goose Gossage deserve pats on the back, but they do not come close to reaching Rivera’s standards.

Catcher: Yogi Berra

This is a tough one, because Berra played as much outfield as he did catching toward the end of his career. Still, he gets the edge over one of the very best, Bill Dickey. Both would have to rank in the top half dozen in MLB history at this position. Elston Howard and Jorge Posada both need to be mentioned, but their careers are far short of the other two. Interesting that for the majority of both Berra's and Dickey's careers they each wore the number 8 on their uniforms.

First Base: Lou Gehrig

Don Mattingly was one of the best, this writer ever saw, both as a player and a person. Being listed second to Gehrig is no one’s disgrace.

Second Base: Tony Lazzeri

This is almost a coin flip between Lazzeri and Willie Randolph. Joe Gordon and Bobby Richardson were also very good. Actually, though, at the current rate, in a few years, my list will be revised as Robinson Cano will be the choice here.

Third Base: Alex Rodriguez

Rodriguez, to my surprise, will by season’s end surpass both Craig Nettles and Red Rolfe in hits as a Yankee. His HR total as a Yankee is already 50 more than runner-up Nettles. Clete Boyer’s great glove at third should also be mentioned here.

Shortstop: Derek Jeter

Really there is no runner-up here. I will mention Phil Rizzuto just to show there was another shortstop before Jeter. Jeter is at worst in the top two at this position in the modern era. (Sorry Ozzie, you are not even close!) Ironically, ARod may have been thought to be his greatest competition for this honor at one time.

Outfield: Babe Ruth (left), Joe DiMaggio (center), and Mickey Mantle (right).

Ruth played primarily in right field, but played left for three full seasons. Mantle played center for the vast majority of his career, but played right field in his first year, 1951. At the very least each of those three would rank in the top dozen outfielders of all-time. The injuries suffered by DiMaggio and Mantle, plus the lost war years of DiMaggio make their stats look smaller than some, but very few were better than either. Barring injuries Mantle may have been the best ever. That is the place that many people put Ruth. Respect should be given to Earle Combs, Bob Meusel, and Bernie Williams also.

A few items of Yankees trivia:

In 1921 Babe Ruth hit his 137th home run. At that point he became the leader in all-time homers.

In 1931 Lou Gehrig drove in a record 184 runs. It is not surprising that the Yankee’s had 10 players score more than 100 runs that season.

In 1936 Bill Dickey hit .362, which remains the highest average in a season for a catcher.

In 1956-----see trivia contest at the bottom of this column.

In 1963 Elston Howard became the first African-American to win the American League MVP Award.

In 2001 the Yankees hosted the first ever World Series game played in November. It was a 3-2 win in Game 5. Arizona went on to win the series three days later.

In future weeks we plan to look at the Cardinals, Cubs, Orioles, and White Sox, as well as any others that people may request.

***

Meet the Board

Jim Wallace is our selected board member of the week. Jim has been on the board for three years and to say that he has made an impact would be an understatement. As field’s coordinator for the past two years, Jim has worked tirelessly at improving the quality of the playing surfaces at James Street Park. Due to his leadership, the likelihood of rainouts has been lessened.

Not only has Jim led the way with resurfacing projects, but coached baseball for four years prior to this season and serve as Baseball Coordinator for one year. His service on other park related issues and positive working relationship with the city is to be admired.

Jim and his wife, Diane, have lived in the Carterville since 1989. He has three children, Amanda and Mike, who graduated from CHS in 1995 and 1996, respectively, and Matthew, who is nine. Matthew is in the Minor League this year on a team coached by Clint Poole.

Jim is a native of Hurst. He went to school at Hurst-Bush Grade and High Schools and graduated from Herrin High School. After completing two years at john A. Logan, he accepted a position with the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Soil Conservation Services. Initially, he worked on the Cache River and Upper Bay Creek flood impoundment structures in Pope and Johnson Counties. He later worked in Jackson, Saline, and Union Counties conducting soil surveys. He earned a professional scholarship and completed his BS degree from SIU. In addition to the above mentioned, Jim worked in Salem, Pekin, Marion, and in the Midwest Regional Office in Madison, Wisconsin. He retired after 35 years of service in 2007.

His favorite sport is baseball and his hobbies include golf, fishing, and hunting anything that “walks, crawls, or vibrates.” In baseball he is an avid Cardinals fan and in football pulls for the Rams.

He enjoys movies that have John Wayne or Clint Eastwood as the stars. It is hard to beat “The Searchers” or “The Unforgiven.”

Thanks Jim for all your time and effort you have devoted in preparation for this baseball/softball season.

***

ODDS AND ENDS

Good luck to our Boys High School Track team at state. Special thoughts to current Tri-C umpire Zach Bollman and former umpire Travis Kidd.

We still have forms for people at the concession stand to order tickets for the Carterville Chamber of Commerce night for a Miner’s game at Rent One Park on May 31. It is hoped that we have a lot of young players from the Tri-C in attendance that night. This is a good opportunity for families to get together in support of our community. Hope to see you there.

We are in the process of planning our Rookie League Tournament. Currently, we are looking at days around July 4th. More information will be coming out soon on what normally is a very popular event.

***

TRIVIA CONTEST

The winner of our contest is Dave Draper. Dave knew that from 1939-1988 three Hall of Fame left fielders played in front of the Green Monster of Fenway. They are Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, and Jim Rice. Congratulations Dave and thanks to all who entered.

Our question this week is about an event that occurred in Game 5 of the 1956 World Series. In that game a pitcher, who wasn’t even scheduled to pitch that day, threw a perfect game. Name this pitcher.

If you know the answer, please email me at brm48@hotmail.com to be included in the drawing for a $10.00 gift card from Subway.

***

Until next time,

Pay attention,

Hustle, and always

Use your “noodle.”

Tri-C Insider Volume 302

Wed, 16 May 2012 19:15:00 +0000

Volume 302

The past week has been an important one for me. My wife had her birthday on Wednesday and my son, Ben’s, on Saturday. Then one of the more important celebrations of the year, Mother’s Day, was on Sunday. I hope that all the mothers and grandmothers had a special day.

This week is also filled with reasons to celebrate as we see many in our community graduate high school, while others are promoted from the eighth grade. It is a funny feeling for me, as I remember some of these young people almost from the time they took their first step. This is a time of year when I have to stop and think for a moment about the age of some of our younger people and what joys they have shared.

This year, for the first time, we have a large number of soon to be freshmen umpiring, along with others working in the concession stand, for Tri-C. This class is one of the finest athletically that Carterville has ever produced. This is true of both the girls and boys. They have been state winners and state contenders for the championships.

Those in the eighth grade class of 2012 who work in the concession stand are Logan Barrett, Adi Bogard, Macey Hollister, Mackenzie Rosenbery, and Tanner Watts. Macey and Tanner both also umpire. Those being promoted who are umpires include Alicia Dawson, Ashton DeRousse, Avery English, Caleb Hayes, Kyle Heuer, Blake Hicks, Nik Lamb, Brennan Lentz, Alex Meade, Dominic Nation, Erica Pansing, Austin Swalls, and Colt Wikey.

The CHS graduating class a very special one for me. For four of them, I served as their first ever baseball coach. Those graduates, who I was honored to coach either as an assistant or a head coach for Tri-C, are the following: Daniel Allen, Chase Beatty, Zach Bollman, Jake Criddle, Braden Drake, Paul Greenlee, Phillip Heckel, J.D. Helton, Keegan Henderson, Tyler Leapley, Dalton Samuel, Marshall Stinnett, Harrison Taylor, and Tarren Waugh.

Two of the above, Zach Bollman and Kyle Helton, also, served as umpires. Sidney Brothers, Blake Jerrells, and Andrea Kesler were officials in the past too.

Our community, the school system, and yes, Tri-C athletics should be very proud of this fine group of young people. We all want to wish them and all the graduates the very best in the future.

It is my hope that Tri-C Athletics touched them in a similar way to how each, in their own way, has touched this organization.

***

Meet the Board

It is fitting around Mother’s Day that we honor a couple of board members who stand out as superior examples of what a good mother should be. Our two board members of the week are Holly Barrett and Ann Bybee. Both bring enthusiasm and a willingness to help wherever needed.

Holly has been married to Pat for 21 years. They have three children, Logan (14), Megan (12), and Nathan (10). Logan is an employee of the concession stand. Megan plays softball and basketball for the junior high and is on the Grassroots team this summer. Nathan plays for Justin Perry in the Minor League.

Holly was born in London, England and has lived in Colorado, New Mexico, Alaska (her favorite), Virginia, and North Carolina. Her father was an officer in the Air Force, which caused her frequent moves. As a point of interest, her father trained “Sully” Sullenberger at the Air Force Academy. Thank goodness he gave a good lecture on emergency landing or the story of the Hudson River landing may have been quite different.

She currently is a supervisor at Carbondale Memorial Hospital in OB, Pediatrics, and NICU. Prior to her nursing career she worked as a travel agent. She loves to travel and is available with free advice to anyone who cares to ask about finding the best deals when planning a vacation. One of her favorite vacations and concerts she ever attended was the Woodstock Reunion in 1994. Twice a year she goes to the Riverboat Amphitheater in St. Louis to listen to any 80s band.

Her favorite activity, though, is watching her children participate in sporting events.

Holly was voted “funniest” and “most wild/crazy” of her senior class. At a later date we may explore the wild and crazy part, but for now let’s just say that she is a true believer in the power of laughter. She feels that laughter is the greatest stress reliever and her goal is to laugh with at least one person daily.

Her favorite quote is one of Mr. Lincoln’s, “It is better to be silent and thought a fool, than to speak and remove all doubt.”

Holly has lived in Carterville for 14 years and says she would not want to live anywhere else. We would not want you to either, Holly.

Even though Ann Bybee is only in her first year on the board, she is establishing a good reputation with her volunteering spirit. Somehow she has been able to balance the role of a mother of five children and her service to the community.

Ann’s five are Dominic (14), Colin (11), Eric (9), and Addison and Taylor who are both six. Dominic is a freshman and formerly played Tri-C sports. Colin is on the Junior High football team and is looking forward to that season beginning. Eric is involved in almost every sport that is offered. He is currently on the team coached by Scott Stewart in the Minor League. On a personal note, I truly enjoyed helping with the basketball team he played on last winter. The twins both play for their mother in the T-Ball League.

Ann was raised on a farm in rural Champaign County. She graduated from Unity High School in Tolono. In school she played volleyball, softball, and ran track. After high school she attended and graduated from SIU-E School of Nursing. She has been involved in Maternal Child Health for most of her career, most recently at SIH.

Ann says her favorite hobbies are watching her kids participate in sporting events. These include baseball, softball, basketball, martial arts, wrestling, football, and dance. She still finds time to coach and is our coordinator for volleyball. Ann, also, is going to be the person assigned to scheduling for Fun Day this year.

Ann is an avid reader and enjoys a good action movie or comedy. She has NCIS is among her favorite TV shows and loves the movie Tombstone. In baseball she is a big fan of the St. Louis Cardinals.

After leaving central Illinois, Ann lived eight years in Edwardsville, two in Marion, six in Energy, and the last eight in Carterville. As with Holly, we are all very happy that Ann and her kids settled here.

***

Last week we mentioned the celebrations in three ball parks that are celebrating anniversaries this year. One of those, which is celebrating its 100th year as a major league ball park is Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox.

The Red Sox were one of the original eight teams in the American League. Only four of these are still in their original city. Fenway was built in an era where great parks or “palaces”, as they were called, went up. From 1909 through 1916 thirteen major league ball parks were built. Only two of those, Fenway and Wrigley Field (1916) are still used.

These parks were all built in the heart of a city and fit the surroundings. Some of which were the center piece and their distinct designs made them easily recognizable by looking at pictures. Even though I only attended games at Sportsman’s Park and Comiskey, as well as Wrigley of the sixteen, the others are places that I have become familiar and would recognize from a photo.

It was a great era for America. Our buildings and structures far surpassed other nations in this time period. The beauty of those parks, in a sense, was a testimony of how great we were as a nation. This writer has a number of books on the ballparks. From time to time it is worth it just to take down the books and stare at the old photos.

In 1999 there was a plan by the Red Sox management to build a new stadium. The people of New England protested and Fenway remains the center of sports to the entire area. The left field wall known as the Green Monster is the most recognizable of its kind anywhere. The wall, however, was not always painted green. Actually, at one point it was red and during most years it was covered in sign advertising particular businesses or products. It was not painted green until 1947.

As I fall into the category of one who is considered a senior citizen, I have come to believe that 100 years is not that long. Happy Anniversary Fenway and many more to come!

***

TRIVIA CONTEST

The winner of our contest is Dan Pestka. Dan knew that the team in first placed in the AL East last Monday was, my favorite, the Baltimore Orioles. Actually, they are still atop the division this morning. (Please, just one more W. S. crown before I die. lol) Regardless, congratulations Dan and thanks to all who entered.

Above we talked briefly about Fenway Park and the Green Monster. From 1939 until 1988 three Hall of Fame left fielders, primarily, manned left field every season except when one of them was fighting in World War II and Korea. Name these three left fielders.

If you know the answer, please email me at brm48@hotmail.com to be included in the drawing for a $10.00 gift card from Subway.

***

Until next time,

Pay attention,

Hustle, and always

Use your “noodle.”

Tri-C Insider Volume 301

Mon, 07 May 2012 15:45:00 +0000

Volume 301

This past weekend was a very busy one for Tri-C Youth Athletics and our community as well. The community block party and the dedication of the new high school were both Friday evening. Both were well attended and spoke volumes about this community. Volunteerism led the way at the block party and the smiles on the children’s faces were well worth any effort that one may have put into this event. At the high school, the honor bestowed on Tim Bleyer in naming the new auditorium in his name is a well deserved and very thoughtful recognition of him by the school board and current administration.

Saturday got off to a great start with our picture day. The first players started arriving around 7:45 and we ran through about 2:30. Yes Bonnie, Charlie was the last one! After years of being the overseer of picture day, in the past, I had forgotten how much fun it could be. Thanks for letting me have this opportunity. We had a blast! TSS is a terrific group to work with and it was good to be there with Sydney Monje, Olivia Savka, and Rick Stanley, as well. I cannot tell you how good it is to see old friends and those you have seen grow up in our community doing a superior job with their own children.

The games appeared to go well at the park. Some would like to figure out what Burk Watts is doing to keep the rain away. Wish I would have been this fortunate early in the season. Not one rainout yet and most importantly two full Saturdays of play under our belts. We could use a little rain, but not on the weekends and maybe between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m.

On Sunday, Bobby Jackson, Doug Owens, and some of their players gave a very good clinic for some of our coaches. Patrick Brown, Keegan Henderson, and Billy Ott were among those helping. Jim Wallace was the board member who arranged this clinic. Thanks Jim! Jackson, also, is planning a baseball camp for boys entering the third through the eighth grades on May 23, 24, and 25 from 10:00 until noon each day. We hope this is well attended.

Also on Sunday, Rick Stanley and Pete Rosenbery attended the SIJBL meeting and received the schedule and the rulebooks for those leagues.

Events such as these do not just happen. They takes planning and dedication. Again, our volunteerism in this community is something we all can be proud of. It is okay that we may disagree from time to time, but we must always keep in focus our goal of helping all the children and making this the best community possible.

***

Meet the Board

Our Board Member of the week is Kimber Monje. Kimber has been a member of the board for six years. She has exhibited leadership from the start and served as President the past two years. She also serves one of the members of the concession stand committee and has been fund-raising chairperson as well.

Kim has been married to her husband, Mike, for 19 years. Mike, also, has been a superior volunteer for the program. He is always willing to pitch-in and help wherever needed. They have two daughters, Huntar (16) and Sydney (12). Huntar, who is a junior at CHS, has been a concession stand worker and now a supervisor for Tri-C. Sydney, who plays this year in the Grassroots League for her father, has also been active in helping Tri-C. This past weekend she helped with picture day. Not to be left out of the Tri-C family, her brother, Eric, has used his talents to sing the National Anthem to kick-off our summer program.

Kim was born and raised in this community. She lived a year in Houston and four years in Bloomington, but always wanted to return to this area. She has been employed at SIU for twelve years. Previously, she was employed at John A. Logan College. She has high praise for both of these institutions. Her first job was at the Carterville Dairy Queen. It is kind of ironic that her experience at DQ served her well in her first Tri-C responsibility of serving the sugary treat of cotton candy at Fun Day.

Kim gives a lot of credit to her parents for helping become the person she is. Her mother is to be credited with helping make her into a great cook. Cheesecake, anyone? She was instructing her on cooking by the time she was eight. They shared many great experiences in the kitchen or entertaining. Her father gave her a great love of sports. He was a true fan of Kentucky basketball and the coach when Kim was a child, Joe B. Hall. Between UK basketball and eight years of watching her brothers play football for the Lions, she was hooked. Kim, also, found a great love in sports for herself. As a player she played for Richard Alexander, Ernie Crain, Kathy Faulkner, Dwayne Field, Ray Kemp, and, the late, Crack Poteete. All of them are very important members of our community. As are you, Kim!

As a lover of the outdoors, she states that among her favorite activities are water skiing and swimming. She also stated a wide range of musical favorites. As she put it, “from country to hip hop to hard rock.” And she admits that in her youth she was a fan of Sammy Hagar.

As a person who wears many, many hats, Kimber is also a member on the Carterville Unit 5 School Board. The same ability she has shown or Tri-C Youth Athletics is being shared with the school district. This past week she was also selected by the city as one of the eight asset builders, for children, in our community.

Kim would like to share that she loves Carterville and has, thoroughly, enjoyed being on the Tri-C Board. She feels we have a program that other communities envy. She invites all of you to come see her at the park this summer and just come by the concession stand and say HI!

***

ODDS and ENDS

Carterville Junior Joanna Bean was awarded a Congressional honor for her volunteerism. Congressman Jerry Costello gave the award to her this past week. She has served helping the local Gum Drops program, as well as other programs through the Ministerial Alliances in the area. Her total hours of service were in the neighborhood of 1,200 in the past year. She also is a member of the track and cross country teams for the high school. This is a remarkable feat.

Albert Pujols hit his first home run of the year yesterday. Regardless what some may think, he is not washed-up. He will still have a good season for the Angels, but is he going to for 10 years? I don’t think so!

George Lindsay who played the character Goober Pyle on the Andy Griffith Show died this weekend. In the first show he appeared he was introduced as Gomer Pyle’s (Jim Nabor’s) cousin. It was one of the two best individual stories, in my opinion, on this great TV show. Anyone watching it would have to laugh out loud or be brain dead. Goober’s Cary Grant and Edward G. Robinson impressions along with walking like Chester have me laughing as I type this. Truly wish we had more shows like this for the younger generation to enjoy.

Yesterday, I purchased my tickets for September 29 at Camden Yards in Baltimore. As part of the twenty year celebration of this field the Orioles are unveiling six statues in honor of six Hall of Famers. They have already had the honoring of Frank Robinson, about a week ago. Others in order are Earl Weaver, Jim Palmer, Eddie Murray, Cal Ripken and Brooks Robinson. Ripken will be honored on September 6, the same date in 1995 when he broke Lou Gehrig’s record. I, of course, will be present for the honoring of my favorite all-time player, Brooks Robinson. If you never saw him play third base, I can only say I am sorry you missed it. He is truly a great human being as well. I have never heard a negative from anyone in baseball about him. He has had some serious health problems in the past two years and the original date of his special day had originally been May 12. Due to these issues it was felt that it would be best to postpone it. Some of you may recall the first words out of my mouth when speaking to Jim Palmer back in February were, “how is Brooks doing?” I hope I get to see him well and looking like he did when he wore the number 5 on his back.

Please join us in wishing fellow board member Russ Thomas a speedy recovery. Russ had some health problems over the weekend and hopes to be up and at them again soon.

***

TRIVIA CONTEST

The winner of our contest is Graham Dynis. Graham knew that on September 6, 1995 Cal Ripken played in his 2,131 consecutive MLB game. His record feat broke the record previously held by Lou Gehrig. Congratulations Graham and thanks to all who entered.

I had planned to ask a question about another classic moment in another ballpark this week, but as many of you may have guessed I am going with another question.

As of Monday morning, May7, which team has the best won-lost record in MLB? It may not last very long, but for me it is a great question for the moment.

If you know the answer, please email me at brm48@hotmail.com to be included in the drawing for a $10.00 gift card from Subway.

***

Until next time,

Pay attention,

Hustle, and always

Use your “noodle.”

Tri-C Insider Volume 300

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:20:00 +0000

Volume 300

Saturday was a great start to the Tri-C baseball/softball season. The weather cooperated and what might have been potential storms dissipated or went elsewhere. The day proved to be near perfect in many respects.

The fields were well prepared and freshly lined, the bases were painted which gave a “new” appearance, the umpires arrived early and discussed specific rules with appropriate personnel, the concession stand workers, likewise, were early and prepared for their tasks, and the parents and others arrived with smiles and positive attitudes, as did the players.

Some of the rules have changed in particular leagues and an almost brand new crew of umpires will make the start of this season a re-learning experience for many. Even though as a group the umpires are inexperienced they looked very professional in their new shirts. Russ Thomas is to be given credit for selecting and ordering the shirts for the umpires.

Over the years, the one thing that strikes me about this program is the positive attitude of so many who visit James Street Park. Saturday was not an exception, as on more than one occasion parents told me that it was almost like Fun Day. The crowds were large and parking, again, was at a premium. Some people reported that they had to drive around for awhile to find a spot. That was the only negative that I heard.

In some respects it was kind of like a family reunion. Many familiar faces complimented those newer to the program and the community. By my best count, I talked to 27 former Tri-C players who had been on teams that I had coached, most of which had kids playing a game. One very proud grandfather, watching his grandson play his first game in T-Ball, recounted a story that I recalled from my very first year of coaching in Tri-C. Another face I was glad and surprised to see was Ruby Howerton. Ruby had just returned from St. Louis after having surgery over a week ago. Her mother, Bonnie, said even though she has little energy at the present time she wanted to come to the park.

I know it wasn’t Fun Day, but it was truly a fun day for me. By my observations, I was not the only person who thoroughly enjoyed the day. People seemed very light-hearted and in the spirit of having a good time. As mentioned above, a lot of people came with smiles and that did not deviate as the day went on.

As for me I look forward to around 50 more days such as Saturday over the next couple of months.

***

Meet the Board

Our board member of the week is Jim Hunsaker. Jim is a Carterville native, who has lived 38 of his 43 years in this community. He and his wife, Amy, lived five years in Indianapolis in the early nineties. They have one daughter, Erin, who is attending the fourth grade.

Jim is currently coaching his daughter’s softball team in the Rookie League. Jim, also, is in his second year as Board Treasurer. In both positions we know he will serve the program well.

Jim is a 1987 graduate of Carterville High School. During those years he played baseball for four years and basketball for two. Jim holds both a bachelors and masters from SIU. He currently is the Assistant Director at the Student Health Center at SIU.

Jim is a fan of all sports and is an avid fan of the Salukis. He, also, follows the Cubs, Blues, and Colts in professional sports. While living in Indianapolis, he began playing slow-pitch softball. He continued, as he puts it, his illustrious (not) career after moving back to southern Illinois. Jim attends church at the Vine Community Church in Carbondale.

In only his third year on the board, Jim has earned the reputation as a hard worker and a very pleasant person to be around. He gave a lot of time on the field resurfacing project and was an outstanding volunteer at both Fun Day and our football game this past year. During our Junior High football games, Jim has been a member of an all-star crew in the booth. Jim has, also, been one of the members who has officiated basketball and baseball/softball games.

Speaking for the board, we are all very glad to have Jim as a member and look forward to him having a long term of service to the community.

***

ODDS and ENDS

Saturday was an eventful day in MLB. It marked the season’s first games of Bryce Harper (Nationals) and Mike Trout (Angels). These two are the number one and two prospects according to all the experts. Some of you may recall that I watched both play for Scottsdale last year in the Arizona Fall League. Harper hit a walk-off home run against the Mesa team in a game I attended. Both are touted as future stars and “can’t miss” prospects. This could be a bumper crop of rookie players this year. Players such as Yoenis Cepedes, Wei-Yin Chen, and Matt Moore are already giving indications of potential greatness.

This MLB season is kind of an historical trip in many ways due to the anniversaries of particular ball parks. Camden Yards (my personal favorite) is 20 years old, Dodger Stadium is 50 years old, and Fenway Park is celebrating a century of baseball in Boston. Regardless of what many of you may think I was not around when the first game was played at Fenway. I do, however, well remember the first games at the former two. Each of these three has hosted some of the major events in the game of baseball.

Sunday morning every team in the AL East had a record of .500 or better. Every other division had at least two teams playing under that figure. It only illustrates the competitive superiority that exists in that division.

Remember this coming Saturday, May 5, is the date of our annual Picture Day. We will be using the Intermediate School Multi-Purpose Room for this event. TSS will be the photographers again this year. Please try to come about 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Bring your forms and your smiles and we will look forward to seeing you all there.

Thanks to all of you for submitting your background check forms. We have sent 140 forms to Springfield and will have a few more stragglers this week. From this we will establish our own list and keep it current for future years.

Dantiel Daniels is back with the Salukis. Good work Barry!

***

TRIVIA CONTEST

The winner of our contest is Ashton DeRousse. Ashton knew that prior to Phillip Humber pitching a perfect game last week the most recent such game was pitched by Roy Halladay. Halladay’s perfecto was on May 29, 2010. Congratulations Ashton and thanks to all who entered.

As mentioned above, the three ball parks that are celebrating anniversaries this year played host to many memorable events. At one of these parks something occurred on September 6, 1995. What historic thing happened on that date?

If you know the answer, please email me at brm48@hotmail.com to be included in the drawing for a $10.00 gift card from Subway.

***

Until next time,

Pay attention,

Hustle, and always

Use your “noodle.”

Tri-C Insider Volume 299

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Volume 299

Through the years, there are a few places that completely overwhelm me. No matter how many times I may return there is a feeling of a lump in my throat and very weak in the knees. This feeling has hit me at Gettysburg, the Lincoln Memorial, Mount Rushmore, The National Baseball Hall of Fame, and a few other notable spots.

Last weekend, I visited one of those places. That place is Shiloh Battlefield. It is set in a very beautiful rural area of southern Tennessee. As most people know, this nation is celebrating, or better put commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. The actual Battle of Shiloh was April 6-7, 1862.

This was my fourth visit to Shiloh. Once when I was eight, once when my oldest two children were small, and the last time was in 1997. The latter was on the 100th anniversary of Shiloh becoming a National Park. Even though some things were modernized, the park was very much the same as I remembered it from my previous visits. Over the years, I have visited over 50 battle sites. Shiloh ranks number one in my book as far as still appearing much as it was a century and a half ago.

Shiloh was the major battle of the western theater of the war. Prior to Shiloh, most people believed that the war was going to be very short-lived and that it was soon to end. After Shiloh people recognized that this was going to be a "blood bath" and a long war.

The Civil War was and still remains the major event in our country's history. Even before my first visit to Shiloh in 1957, I was fascinated by the Civil War. My thoughts have greatly changed and I hope expanded since that time, but am still fascinated with many aspects of this great conflict.

This war ruled our political thought and who we were as a nation for over 100 years after Lee surrendered to Grant. Some theorists will say that it still influences the thought of certain politicians today. The issue of State's Rights or Federal responsibility to the individual is a part of our current dialogue. It is this issue, along with a couple of others that caused our system in 1861 to completely breakdown. To a great extent this tragic event that so captivates people, such as myself, occurred because people forgot how to compromise and work together. The intense one-sided hatefulness of thought is not what made this country great. Our Constitution is mostly a collection of compromise and was put together by people of varying political ideologies. It scares me today when I hear people taking a rigid, unyielding stance on particular issues, from either perspective.

At the end of the day at Shiloh we traveled northward to the small town of Parker's Crossroads. The battle in this community was fought in December, 1862. When I stopped at the visitor's center I spoke to the woman working there. As a native of that area, I am sure that she and I had different viewpoints on the war. Those issues never came up. Instead we both talked about the importance of understanding our history. She told me that she had people visit there form Europe, Canada, and Asia that were students of the war and appreciated what it meant to our country and to the world. Her greatest disappointment, in her 15 years working there, was when school children would visit and not have any idea of what the Civil War was.

When reading comments in social media and even worse the misrepresentations of historical realities by politicians and commentators it kind of makes me ill. We all should realize the importance of understanding our history. If we do not learn those lessons, we are doomed to repeat the same mistakes.

At Parker’s Crossroads, Martha and I made a decision to change our original plans and head west instead of east and the Battlefield of Franklin. We chose one of my other great passions for our second day and that being baseball. Quite frankly this thought had been in my head since we took off and seemed like the right thing to do.

On Sunday afternoon we stopped just east of Memphis at Cordova, Tennessee. There is a terrific baseball complex there which consists of eight fields, each with grass infields. The complex is well laid out with a large concession stand centrally located. The players that I went to see were Bryce Anderson, Nate Watts, and Nick Brown. They are currently playing on the 9U Southern Illinois Bullets. Unfortunately, Nick had taken a spill at the swimming pool the night before and had headed back, with his parents, to Carterville.

Not only does this facility have excellent baseball fields, each of which had games on them all day long, but one of the finer collections of memorabilia was in a room inside the concession stand. Some of the items include a Babe Ruth uniform, jerseys of Ernie Banks and Tris Speaker, autographed bats, balls, and plaques, and a large number of ball cards. That by itself was worth the visit.

It was a well spent afternoon. Thanks for inviting me, Trey and Burk. One time in this column, a handful of years back, I wrote about how I would rather watch a bunch of kids play baseball than go to the Super Bowl. This day solidified my thinking on that subject and look forward to watching more games at James Street Park very soon.

Even though I was not as overwhelmed with the ball fields as I was with Shiloh, I was more than impressed. Now, if I can only come up with about five or six million dollars, we could build a complex in Carterville like the one I observed in Cordova.

Maybe I am just dreaming here, but actually it might not be that wild of an investment. The amount of revenue generated on a number of weekend games may pay for the said fields in a reasonably short period of time. It would be nice to see a lot of the money being spent by parents with players on elite or select teams, from our immediate area, be spent here at home. It could be a real boom to the local area’s economy.

Yes, maybe I am dreaming, but without visions and a forward looking perspective we find ourselves sitting still and never making any progress. It is worth a serious discussion at the very least.

***

Meet the Board

Our board member of the week is Pete Rosenbery. Pete has been a member of the board since 2004, which makes him second on the board in years served by active members. He has served as board secretary the last four years, and helps coordinate softball and volleyball.

Pete was raised in east central Illinois and graduated from St. Joseph-Ogden in 1978. He is very proud of his alma mater’s record, year in and year out, in high school football.

He was a longtime reporter for The Southern Illinoisan newspaper, a former assignment editor at WSIL-TV 3, and since August 2003, assistant director with University Communications at SIU Carbondale. He came to SIU in 1980 to finish his degree and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communications, with a specialization in public relations.

His wife, Robbie, is a graduate of Johnston City High School, and they have lived in Carterville since March 2003. They will celebrate their 17th wedding anniversary in May.

They have three children -- Mackenzie, 14, who plays for Jeremy McBride’s team in the SIJBL Debutante League. She will graduate from eighth grade next month, and was a member of the junior high softball and volleyball teams. She recently was chosen for the Carterville High School pom/dance team for the upcoming 2012-2013 season. Madalynn, 6, is on Ann Bybee’s Shetland team, and Marlee, 4, looks up to and wants to follow her big sisters everywhere. Pete has had various nicknames throughout the years, including "Boo" and "Pistol," an homage to the great Pete Maravich.

Pete is primarily a conservative who leans more right than left on most issues, much to SOME people’s chagrin. His hobbies are watching his daughters’ activities, cutting grass, and NASCAR racing. As a big nostalgia buff, he loves the shows American Pickers and Pawn Stars on the History Channel.

Pete enjoys documentaries on television, and 70s and 80s music. His favorite teams remain the Cubs, 49ers and Indiana Pacers, SIU, and foremost, the Fighting Illini. I-L-L I-N-I. He was raised on Illini traditions as a child, and could sing Illinois Loyalty when he was 5 years old. According to Pete, those were the days when you could spend $5 to get a walkup seat to a game in Memorial Stadium, and bemoans the fact that Chief Illiniwek was the victim of political correctness and is no longer the University’s true symbol. He faults corporate sponsors that have taken away the ability for many families to attend professional games. He was also sorry to see both Bruce Weber and Ron Zook dismissed, and questions the wisdom of the new athletic director and his recent hires.

Pete states that he enjoys being part of Tri-C and hopes that he is able to assist the community in our children’s development.

Pete was saddened recently by the passing of his football and basketball coach at St. Joseph-Odgen, Dale Doehring, who was a great mentor. But looking back more than 30 years after he graduated from high school, it is also a reminder of how important the impact that each coach, even on a volunteer level, can have on young people. He is looking forward to the Hall of Fame induction ceremonies later this summer in Cooperstown, N.Y. when his favorite Cub player of all time, Ron Santo, is inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His regret is only that the Cubs’ third-base great was not alive to see the honor he so richly deserved.

***

As we approach the beginning of our 2012 baseball/softball season it should be recognized the great amount of effort that has gone into the preparation. Even though the following is not a complete list of those who have given greatly of themselves these are some of the ones who deserve a big pat on the back. First, Rick Stanley has taken the reigns as president and been involved ensuring each member was following through on responsibilities. Jim Wallace, who in addition to all his efforts on the playing fields, has established a very positive working relationship with the City of Carterville. Shannon Watson and Jim Hunsaker have, also, been involved with helping prepare the fields. They appear to be in great shape. It should be mentioned too that Bill Rosado and Trey Anderson have been working to get the baseball field at Cannon in playable condition. Even though we used Cannon often in the past, the last time we played games there was eight years ago.

Burk Watts, in his role as coordinator for baseball, has prepared the game and practice schedules for the league. As one who should know, scheduling may be one of the more difficult tasks for this organization. Burk, also, has been mentoring Trey Anderson in the area of equipment. Trey’s responsibility is that of ensure that the equipment is in good repair and an adequate number of supplies exist.

Jason Jordan has been wearing numerous hats also in his role as softball coordinator. In addition to the good communication with the softball coaches he is the supervisor of the concession stand this year. Either of those roles can be a full time position. Our other softball coordinator, Pete Rosenbery, in addition to his other responsibilities, has been involved with coordinating with the SIJBL, which provides the program for those 11years and older.

Almost, every time I have been at the park this spring, I have witnessed Kim Monje being present working on preparing the concession stand for the upcoming season. Kim, also, is one who has helped provide information to the coaches and is very active in preparing for Fun Day and other fund raising events.

Russ Thomas, the new supervisor for our officials, provided a clinic for our youth umpires this past weekend. Russ instructed over 20 mostly new recruits on the rules and expectations of umpires. Russ seems prepared to accept this role this year.

There are of course many others that have contributed greatly to ensuring that our ball season will be one of our best ever. Thanks to all for their commitment and hard work at leading by example to keep our goal a reality.

***

Anyone who grew up in a timeframe similar to mine mourns the loss of Dick Clark. Many of a younger generation will only remember Clark from his Rockin’ New Year’s Eve on ABC in recent years, but to those of us from another era he was much, much more.

Clark and his American Bandstand set the tone for many shows that followed. The show first aired from Philadelphia in 1957. It launched the careers of many including Chubby Checker and Smokey Robinson, among others. Clark’s youthful appearance gave him the nickname, “America’s oldest teenager.” He made rock and roll more palatable to many adults. There was a strong resistive movement to any rock movement at that time and Clark helped with bridging the generational problems for many a teen and pre-teen with their respective parents.

My first memory of going to a boy-girl party was in sixth grade when a number of us went to a girl’s home to watch and dance to the music of American Bandstand after school. I know I am not alone in having fond memories of Clark and that show.

One of my old sayings, that has been popular for many years raced through my thoughts when hearing of his death, “it has a nice beat, easy to dance to.” You had a nice beat too, Mr. Clark, and you brought a great deal of joy to millions.

***

ODDS and ENDS

Three years ago, I wrote in this column that I had most probably witnessed the last start in the superior career of pitcher Jamie Moyer. Well, I was proven wrong, again. Not only did Moyer start a game this past week, but set a record for being the oldest pitcher, at 49, to win a Major League game. It gives heart to many of those of the older set that many things can still be accomplished. Hmmm, maybe I should consider the Orioles’ fantasy camp next January. Not sure if I will or not, but just in case think I’m going to buy some stock in Ben Gay, Icy Hot, and Mineral Ice.

Another MLB pitcher is the proud owner of the latest perfect game. Phillip Humber of the Chicago White Sox accomplished the feat, which is only the 21st of its kind in history. The last no-hitter pitched was last summer by Ervin Santana of the Angels. The last perfect game was pitched in 2010.

Our hearts go out to the family of Deanna Heal, at her passing. Mrs. Heal was the high school and junior high Art Teacher and had been waging a valiant battle against cancer. Even though none of my children ever had her in class, those who had her reported nothing but positives. I never heard one student utter a negative word about her. She was always friendly and upbeat with everyone. It is a sad loss for our school district and community.

Thanks to all of you who have completed the background check forms and hope that all will be collected in the next couple of days. We had set a deadline for last week, but some people are not on daylight savings time yet. If you are one of those without one turned in, please, do so ASAP.

In the last Insider I said that Barry Hinson’s takeover of SIU was nowhere near the rebuilding that Rich Herrin was facing after the Gottfried/Van Winkle years. Now after losing his best two recruits and, in my opinion, his best two returnees, things are beginning to mirror Herrin’s initial task. It may be a couple of long winters ahead.

***

TRIVIA CONTEST

Last week, if you recall, we had two trivia questions. On the 100 anniversary of the New York Yankees (Highlanders) wearing pin stripes we asked the following. First, what were the New York Highlanders (Yankees) called prior to moving to New York? The answer: The Baltimore Orioles. The second question was which MLB team wore pin stripes prior to the Highlanders (Yankees)? The answer: The Chicago Cubs. No comment except to say that the less heralded franchises of the O’s and Cubbies certainly were ahead of the Yankees in these respective areas.

Our winners are Dave Draper and Cathy Perry. Each will receive a $10.00 gift card from Subway. Congratulations to Dave and Cathy and thanks to all the others who entered.

This week’s question has to do with Phillip Humber’s perfect game. Who was the last person to pitch a perfect game prior to Humber in the major leagues?

If you know the answer, please email me at brm48@hotmail.com to be included in the drawing for a $10.00 gift card from Subway.

***

Until next time,

Pay attention,

Hustle, and always

Use your “noodle.”

Tri-C Insider Volume 298

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 21:40:00 +0000

Volume 298

A little over a week ago I was exiting Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota and was thinking to myself (for the 10,987,256,431 time) how much fun I had at spring training. This year was special in that I was able to attend 14 of the 15 Orioles’ home games. My seats were located on the first base side, second row, and just inside the infield dirt. Almost perfect to my way of thinking!

As long as I can remember spring training has been important to me. I carry with me many a positive childhood memories from games I attended with my parents. I believe, likewise, that my children feel the same. It is a remarkable time when fans from different teams treat each other with a reasonable amount of civility.

I sat near and had conversations with fans of eighteen MLB teams, other than the Orioles, during various games. One commonality existed. That being that they have high hopes for their team this year. Obviously, in the case of O’s fans or those of the Twins or Pirates, the expectations may seem smaller than teams such as the Yankees, Rays, and Cardinals. The thought, though, is that all is fresh and all are starting anew.

Every spring is like a child with a new toy or the hope that something good may occur. When I jokingly stated after the first series that this could be the Orioles year, a friend called me a dreamer. Well, he is probably right, but I choose to be one who believes in imagining that good things are in the future.

Standing at the left field entrance before the final game that I attended, a group of four men dressed in Detroit T-shirts and caps walked toward me. One asked, “How in the world can you root for the Orioles?” Quickly and with a smile on my face told them that anyone can root for a team that just spent a lot of money on a big time hitter and has expectations of being in the hunt for the World Series, but it takes a REAL fan to support your team knowing that they will not even play .500 this season. They all smiled and gave an affirming nod.

Being a fan of this beautiful game is kind of like a marriage. You sign on to love, honor, and cherish, in sickness and in health, until death us do part. There are rough times being a fan and there are rough times in a marriage. Sometimes, one feels it necessary to divorce from a situation and move on. Actually, that thought has never crossed my mind. If Tommy Lasorda bleeds Dodger Blue and Stan Musial bleeds Cardinal Red, then my veins will always run orange and black.

There are theorists and psychologist that state if your ball team is a winner, then you feel you are better looking. Well, I guess my looks are not what they were 16 years ago, when the Orioles represented one of the best teams. Even though I do not subscribe to this theory, I will admit that there was a different way of carrying myself, leaving the park, after the victories over the Yankees and Red Sox, as opposed to the loss to Philadelphia or even worse the error-riddled ninth inning loss to Toronto.

Regardless of which team you root for, I hope each of you enjoy this season and that the boys of summer bring many joys to you.

R. Norman’s MLB Predictions for 2012

American League

East

1. Tampa Bay Rays

2. New York Yankees

3. Toronto Blue Jays

4. Boston Red Sox

5. Baltimore Orioles

The Rays have as good a frontline pitching as anyone and their offense should be improved. The Yankees could win the division, but Jeter, Rodriguez, and Rivera are a year older. Toronto is a solid team and could be in the chase all year. Boston is not the Red Sox teams of recent years. They will be lucky to avoid the cellar. John Lester cannot pitch every day. The Orioles will be better, but the pitching is too young. Jones, Markakis, and Wieters could all be all stars.

Central

1. Detroit Tigers

2. Kansas City Royals

3. Cleveland Indians

4. Chicago White Sox

5. Minnesota Twins

This is the only division where it appears that one team has a lock. Detroit has the best one-two hitting combo in baseball in Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder and quite possibly the best pitcher in Justin Verlander. Kansas City is very improved. The Indians are slightly better than the other two. The battle for fourth place may be the only saving grace for the White Sox and Twins.

West

1. Texas Rangers

2. Los Angeles Angels

3. Seattle Mariners

4. Oakland A’s

A lot of people are picking the Angels to be the favorite for World Series rings this year. The addition of Pujols has to make this a possibility, but Texas is still the stronger team. The Angels may be hard pressed to make the playoffs. Oakland may be building for a good future, but trading Gio Gonzalez does not lead many to think they can beat out the Mariners.

National League

East

1. Philadelphia Phillies

2. Miami Marlins

3. Washington Nationals

4. Atlanta Braves

5. New York Mets

This could be one of the most exciting races of them all. Philadelphia will need a healthy Ryan Howard and Chase Utley to win this division. Even with terrific pitching, there is some tough competition here. The Marlins may be headed to the playoffs, if they can hold off the Nationals. The Nationals have improved their pitching and may be only one position player away from being at the top. Can anyone say Bryce Harper? Chipper Jones was on the DL starting this, his last season. He has been the glue of this team for years. Without him at his best it is not going to be pretty. The Mets are still trying to take care of Bernie Madoff’s bills.

Central

1. Cincinnati Reds

2. St. Louis Cardinals

3. Milwaukee Brewers

4. Pittsburgh Pirates

5. Chicago Cubs

6. Houston Astros

This one could go to either of the top three. Actually, I am probably being a little dismissive of the Pirates. They play hard and looked as if they believed in themselves in Florida. The Brewers will not be as bad as some predict after the loss of Fielder. They have two very good pitchers at the top of their rotation and will not go on long losing streaks. Looking at the Cardinals lineup, the first five in the order all have had lengthy injuries in recent years and Molina has caught a lot of innings over the past few years. This, with the fact that Carpenter is on the shelf could spell problems. If they avoid serious injuries, they could easily win this division. Here again, many a person, including this writer, predicted they would not have a good year last season, after Wainwright went down. My judgment still tells me, however, that the Reds will win it. The Cubs are re-building and the Astros will be thinking about their move to the AL next season by Memorial Day.

West

1. Arizona Diamondbacks

2. Colorado Rockies

3. San Francisco Giants

4. San Diego Padres

5. Los Angeles Dodgers

The Diamondbacks appear to be the more solid all around team here. A trendy pick is Colorado, but do not forget the strong front line pitching of the Giants. The Padres may show some improvement, but it will take a lot more magic than Magic Johnson to make the Dodgers contend. How does a team with Matt Kemp and Clayton Kershaw finish last? Just watch and see.

American League Playoffs

Wild Card-Yankees over Angels

Division Series-Rays over Tigers

Division Series-Rangers over Yankees

Championship Series-Rays over Rangers

National League Playoffs

Wild Card-Marlins over Cardinals

Division Series-Diamondbacks over Marlins

Division Series-Phillies over Reds

Championship Series-Diamondbacks over Phillies

World Series

Rays over Diamondbacks

There are six teams in the American League that are better than the best team in the National League. Throw a rope around any one of them and your guess is as good as mine.

Look forward to hearing from some of you with varying beliefs. You can tell me your thoughts at James Street Park or send me an email at brm48@hotmail.com to give me your opinion.

***

Meet the Board

Our board member of the week is Jason Jordan. Jason is in his second year as a member of the board, but has been active in Tri-C much longer than that. Jason has been a coach in Tri-C for four years and for seven years was one of the better umpires Tri-C ever employed.

This year he has taken on the responsibilities of softball coordinator and is the supervisor of the concession stand. Either of those by themselves is a big job. We as a board feel comfortable that Jason will handle both roles with the professionalism we have come to expect.

Jason is the father of two children. Kirsten is a nine year old that plays for her dad in the Rookie League and Caden who at 4 is playing ball for the first time in the Pre-K league.

Jason was born in Murphysboro and lived in Tolono (didn’t we beat them in football a few years back?) prior to moving to Carterville. He has lived in Carterville since 1993 and graduated from CHS in 1996. He went on and received a bachelor’s degree from SIU in 2000. Since he graduated from college he has been employed in the technology department at Verizon Wireless.

Sports are a very important part of Jason’s life. He considers baseball, golf, and NASCAR his favorites. His favorite professional teams are the Cardinals, the Blues, and the Colts. His favorite driver on the circuit is Kevin Harvick and his favorite baseball player remains Ozzie Smith.

Jason lists just playing with his kids, grilling out, and movies as his favorite things to do away from the park. His most memorable vacation was when he visited Cooperstown and the National Baseball Hall of Fame. This writer could not agree more about a great place to spend a summer day.

In his short time on the board, Jason has made a positive impact by helping with work projects and refereeing basketball games this past winter. Tri-C is fortunate to have Jason as one of its members for years to come.

***

ODDS and ENDS

If the Miami Marlins were not the joke organization of baseball before the past week, they certainly appear to be firmly entrenched now. Watching the opening day game, versus the Cardinals, I was in disbelief more than not. First, they had Las Vegas type showgirls to escort the players; next they had Muhammad Ali present for some reason. His relevance to baseball eludes me. Yes, I am aware that he won the championship over Sonny Liston in Miami, but again, other than that, how does he relate to baseball or for that matter Miami? Would not Jeff Conine or Jack McKeon been better choices? Jose Feliciano performed the national anthem. He was much criticized at the World Series in 1968 for the same rendition. This time it was better received by a more respectful and tolerant audience. At least Feliciano had some history with baseball. At least he had more history than Ali and the showgirls.

Next, to the stadium, itself. It was described by one of the announcers as “a spaceship mating with a cruise ship.” After I laughed at that, my first comment was, “if they do not draw more fans than in the past, it will be like the Titanic mating with the Hindenburg.” I am however, very interested in the “thing” just left of dead away center field. It is supposed to light-up and rotate, with water when a Marlin hits a home run. I watched and pulled for a dinger the entire game. All I can think of is tacky! This stadium was built by taxpayer’s money. If there ever was a reason for a taxpayer revolt, this would be it. The Marlins have spent a lot of money in the off season luring such notables as Jose Reyes and Mark Buehrle to south Florida. I will go easy on my opinion that they, also, have the ugliest uniforms in the game.

Only Ozzie Guillen could take a situation and make it much, much worse. How in the name of all that is holy can one make a statement in Miami, that you love and respect Fidel Castro? As anyone, with half a brain could figure out, a great potion of the population of Miami is Cuban. The majority of them are ones whose family escaped from Castro and the tyranny that existed in Cuba after his take over. Many of these people had relatives that were tortured and killed during his control of Cuba.

Guillen, in his apology tried to put the blame on the press, for taking things out of context and due to his problems with the language. How many times do we have to hear that it is the fault of the press when a person makes a pathetic, unthinking statement? Now serving a five day suspension, his future may be in doubt. Many people are going to boycott the Marlins’ games if he remains as manager.

And the real sad part is that this organization has won two World Series since the Orioles have.

***

Bubba Watson’s winning the Master’s is one of the highlights of this sports season. Sports can be an emotionally draining thing, whether it is physically or mentally. To some it is a sign of weakness to cry. To me it is an expression of really caring about something. Letting your emotions show is an honest way of handling things, in my opinion. We all would be better off if we appreciated an honest showing of emotions.

***

By the reports today, Dantiel Daniels has asked for his release from SIU to play basketball at another school. Daniels is probably the player that Southern needed most to return. To lose him is a real blow. Still, believe me when I tell you the situation is not as bad as it was when Rich Herrin took over. The future just dimmed a great deal in the short-term with Daniels’ decision, but if Barry Hinson employees the same type of work ethic that Herrin showed when he first took over, the fans will see an improvement in community relations and on the court.

***

We will have an Insider for you weekly the next few months. If all goes well we will try to post on Mondays. This week we are adding two trivia questions and would hope to see an increase in participation. Have a great week and thanks for reading.

***

TRIVIA QUESTION

This week we will offer two questions in the hopes of increasing the number of those answering. Two prizes each week for the next few weeks.

The winner of our contest this week is, ironically, our board member of the week, Jason Jordan. Jason knew that the only pitcher to pitch a no-hitter on opening day was Bob Feller. The Hall of Famer did so in 1940. Congratulations Jason and thanks to all who entered.

100 years ago this week the Yankees wore pinstripes for the first time. They were known as the Highlanders then, but became the Yankees the following year.

Question1-What was the American League New York team called prior to moving to New York City?

Question 2-One MLB team wore pinstripes prior to the Yankees. Name that team.

If you know the answers, please email me at brm48@hotmail.com to be included in the drawings for a $10.00 gift card from Subway.

***

Until next time,

Pay attention,

Hustle, and always

Use your “noodle.”

Tri-C Insider Volume 297

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 19:55:00 +0000

Volume 297

As much as I enjoyed being in Florida for two months, it is always good to be home. I hope the rest of the board will not accuse me of feather bedding. It may take a little while for me to get into full swing, but totally look forward to our upcoming baseball/softball season.

It is hoped that all of you have a most Happy Easter!

***

The NCAA Basketball Tournament is now history and quite frankly the best team, from start to finish, won. The University of Kentucky not only had the best players, but played as a team. Most impressive was the performance of the best college player in the nation, Anthony Davis.

For years, I have written in this column that among the least significant elements of a complete basketball player was scoring. Davis completely dominated the championship game, yet he scored only six points and shot poorly from the field. With Kansas keying on Davis, his teammates were able to score the points. It was most amazing to me how Davis completely dominated the defensive end. Even though I hate to see young men forgo their education to the lure of professional sports, he will be a great player in the NBA. Davis will be the first pick and most likely three of his teammates will go in the first round of the NBA draft.

Another thing that impressed me about Davis and his family was the fact that he remained in school at a small charter school in Chicago, throughout high school. His parents took the advice, “if you are good enough, they’ll find you wherever you are”, they chose to remain. Others could benefit from considering that advice.

As great a performance as Kentucky displayed during the tournament, it was not the highlight for me. My favorite part of the tournament was when Lehigh, Ohio University and Norfolk State pulled off upsets. Many of you, I have to believe, agree with me. To me it is not as big a thrill seeing the powerhouse teams from the “fat cat” conferences, as it is watching those teams fall to a lesser known basketball school.

Again, as I have for over 20 years, pose the following question. Would the tournament not be more fun if they added another weekend and invited 256 teams? The potential for upsets would abound and there would be hope for the smaller conferences to gain some revenue. The reason why the NCAA probably will never do this is because the big boys do not want to see any form of revenue sharing. The richer schools enjoy having the control and those conferences ultimately will make more money, but it seems much fairer if some of that was shared with others.

Another reason that the “biggies” want control of who is in the tournament is student recruitment. Rightly or wrongly, athletics plays a part, if by nothing more than name recognition, regarding student recruitment. With our college systems in such financial difficulties, how could it hurt for schools other than UK, KU, UNC, OSU, Duke, Syracuse, etc. to receive a little bit of free publicity?

I really wish that someone would explain to me why my thoughts are not on target regarding this subject. If any of you can show me why this is not a positive move, please let me know. I can be found at brm48@hotmail.com.

***

MEET THE BOARD

(During the next three months, as we have for the past seven years, we will provide this series to introduce you to the Tri-C Youth Athletics Board.)

Fittingly, our first board member mini-bio of the week is that of Board President Rick Stanley. Rick and his wife of twelve years, Becky, have two children. They are Dylan (8) and Nathan (6). Dylan is playing this year in Rookie and Nathan is in T-ball. Both are coached by their father.

Rick has lived 32 of his 34 years in Carterville. He also lived one year in Marion and one in Effingham. He is a graduate of CHS and is employed by Progressive Insurance. Rick and Becky are members of the Carterville United Methodist Church.

His favorite sports team is the Chicago Cubs and spends time tuned to WGN often during the summer. Outside of playing outdoors with his sons, he enjoys waterfowl hunting.

Rick is in his fourth year as a member on the Tri-C Board. Prior to accepting the Presidency this year, he served as Vice-President last year. He, also, has proven himself to be an active member and was director of the flag football program for the past three years. During his time on the board, he has been a hard worker on most of the projects to improve the playing fields.

As one who has known Rick most of his life, I can testify that he not only a good father, but one who is honest and committed to seeing that all children are fairly represented. We on the Tri-C Board look forward to having Rick as a member of this organization for many years to come.

***

Being away from southern Illinois for two months, I have kind of fallen out of the loop. As one would expect many events happened in that period. With all things, some were positive and some were negative. The storms that ravaged through Harrisburg, of course, represent the major event of the latter. Those of you who volunteered to assist those victims of nature’s devastation are to be saluted.

The world of sports was not void of great happening, also. Spring training was in full swing, Woodlawn won a State Basketball Championship, Peyton Manning is now a Bronco, and SIU fired and hired a new basketball coach.

I guess I was a little surprised that the first five things I read about the hiring of Barry Hinson, on facebook, were negative and it started me thinking about how some people think they come off as some type of genius, with great insight by being cynical and negative. Au contraire, it tends, at least in my opinion, to prove people to be negative and nothing more.

About a week ago, I wrote the following on facebook, in response to a few individuals’ negative comments about the hire of Barry Hinson as head basketball coach at SIU.

“None of us know exactly what went on behind the scenes. My first choice was Rodney Watson, but also know that he has a contract with USI and as an honorable man may have felt a loyalty. I do not know this, but just a thought. Barry Hinson ran a very clean program at Missouri State. I was shocked when he was fired. Athletes graduated and had high GPAs under his program. He has since been at another clean program at KU. Being at Kansas will be a big help in contacting some good recruits. If you do not believe those three things are important, then, I am sorry, but you do not know what you are talking about. Negative attitudes and unrealistic expectations on the part of “fans” are part of the problems with Saluki basketball. LET US ALL GIVE HIM A FAIR CHANCE. LET US TRY TO BE POSITIVE.”

One thing that I did not mention, which made me respect Hinson a lot in his Missouri State days was his personal conduct. Twice, that I recall, Hinson lost very close and last second heroics to the Salukis. On one occasion, his player was called for a very, very questionable infraction and the ball went back to SIU with only a couple of ticks on the clock. Kent Williams provided a last second shot and the Bears lost by one point. Privately, he had to be livid, but publicly he did not make excuses. Many a lesser person would have been extremely critical of both the officiating and the Salukis. Hinson was not.

I do not expect Hinson to turn around the program back to where it was six or eight years ago over night, but the more I reflect on the hire, he strikes me as a person who can make the program better in a short period of time. He will have a more mature Daniels and Setty back, plus the additions of Bobo Drummond highly recruited point guard out of Peoria and Desmar Jackson, a pure shooter, who scored 14.5 per game for Wyoming in 2010-2011.

Wish we all could fully understand what went wrong with Chris Lowery. Somehow, somewhere things went bad for him. Do not know if insecurities played a part or if the wrong type of players were recruited, that can be speculated from now till the end of time. Obviously, Lowery is highly regarded by some. Deposed Illini coach Bruce Weber, quickly, hired Lowery to be a bench coach as he moves to Kansas State. Having reliable and knowledgeable bench coaches is a must in the modern era of college basketball. Regardless of friendship, Weber would not have offered a position to Lowery if he did not think he would be of a great help to the Wildcat program.

Interesting that a gentleman, from Minnesota, with whom I shared a most pleasurable conversation a few weeks ago asked about Lowery. He talked about how Lowery could have had the Minnesota head coaching job, but was loyal to his school and home at SIU. Ironic sometimes how things work in sports. I for one wish Lowery the best at Kansas State.

As mentioned above, a major element in a college basketball program is the people around the head coach. One should remember that during Weber’s successful seasons at SIU his bench staff consisted of Matt Painter, Rodney Watson, and Lowery. Not to say that Weber isn’t a good coach, but I am sure he would admit to giving a lot of credit to his staff.

Likewise, with Hinson, who worked closely with Bill Self at Kansas. Watching the NCAA Tournament this year, in my opinion, Kansas was about as well coached as any team that I saw. Outside of possibly Coach K. and Bo Ryan, there is no coach in college, at the present time, better than Bill Self. Even a casual observer would have noted the coaching of Self versus Ohio State in the semi-finals. Former Saluki, Thad Matta, had a deer in the headlights type of stare during most of the second half.

That is what superior coaches can do to others. Let us all hope that Barry Hinson learned well and will bring the Salukis back to prominence. Along with that, I hope the nay-sayers and those who prefer to think negatively give this man and the program a fair opportunity.

***

ODDS and ENDS

On March 23, a group of community friends got together and had a benefit spaghetti supper for Rich Lentz and his family. Rich is currently battling cancer and was honored by this great group of volunteers. Rich and his wife, Tammy, are terrific people and should well know that this community is there for them. From all who talked to me about the event it was reported that it was nothing short of a great time. Truly wish I could have been there to lend my support to this good family.

The winner of our NCAA Final Four Contest was Dan Gentz. Dan predicted Kentucky as the National Champions and had three teams in the final four. Congratulations to Dan and a big thank you to the others who entered. Also, of course, a big thank you to Grumpy’s Smokehouse for providing the winner’s prize of a $75.00 gift certificate.

James Street Park looks very nice and ready for play. A lot of hard work has gone into preparing the fields and park for the fun times ahead. Let’s try to take pride in our facilities and keep them in the best of care.

***Early next week we will provide you with another Insider. My picks for the baseball season and some other items that you may find interesting will appear at that time***

***

TRIVIA CONTEST

In the Cardinals season opener, Kyle Lohse went into the seventh inning without giving up a hit. Who is the only MLB pitcher to pitch a no-hitter on opening day?

If you know the answer, please email me at brm48@hotmail.com to be included in the drawing for a $10.00 gift card from Subway.

***

Until next time,

Pay attention,

Hustle, and always

Use your “noodle.”

Tri-C Insider Volume 296

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 23:15:00 +0000

Volume 296

(All opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author. In no way does this reflect the opinions of members of the Tri-C Youth Athletic Board or any other affiliated with the program.)

The NCAA has just announced the pairings for the 65-team field for the men‘s basketball tournament. Our contest is now officially open to all who wish to participate in our annual Final Four contest. All you have to do to enter is predict the teams you believe will be in the Final Four. Then pick the National Champion and the total number of points in the final game. The winner will receive a $75.00 gift certificate from Grumpy’s Smokehouse.

Rules and Tie Breakers:

1. For each team you have in the Final Four you will receive one (1) point.

2. Each team that plays in the championship game, you will receive two (2) points.

3. If you correctly pick the National Champion you will receive three (3) points.

4. The person with the most total points will be declared the winner.

5. In the case of a tie, the person who is the closest in predicting the number of total points in the Championship game will be declared the winner.

6. If the contest is still tied after all the above, we will hold a sudden-death free-throw contest to decide the winner.

You may enter the contest by either following my lead and post on the communication forum, on this website, or email your predictions to me at brm48@hotmail.com. Remember to enter before 12:00 noon on Thursday March 15 in order to be eligible for the gift certificate.

***

As almost all of you know, I am currently in Florida and am thoroughly enjoying my experience in the Sunshine State. I have been fortunate to talk to and get autographs from the key players on the Orioles team. Also, I was lucky enough to get the autograph of Manny Machado, the Orioles best position prospect. Now if I can get one from their best pitching prospect, Dylan Bundy, I feel my quest will be completed.

It was nice chatting with these young men, but my highlight came last Saturday, when I was able to talk to and get the autograph of a soon to be 82 year old Hall of Famer, Earl Weaver. The Earl of Baltimore agreed to sign a few autographs in the 85 degree temperature. Quickly, I moved to the line and prepared my quick comment to him. As I approached him, I kept practicing my line and must admit delivered it perfectly.

“West Frankfort, Illinois---1948”, were the words out of my mouth. Weaver slowly raised his head, looked at me, and smiled from ear to ear. He then asked, “how in the h#&* did you know about that?” A story that I had been wanting to share with this man since he became the Oriole manager in 1968, was at hand. Answering his question I told him that on the week I was born that he, a young second baseman playing for the West Frankfort Redbirds, got the winning hit in an all-star game for the long defunct Triple I League. I told him my father saved the Sporting News from that week. It still remains one of my most prized possessions. He asked if I was from Frankfort and I said, “no a small town close by”, to which he asked, “Benton?” I told him Carterville and asked if he remembered, Mel Ivy, the Marion manager then. He nodded and I said he played semi-pro for my father. At this point the ushers started to escort me out. As I left he looked up and smiled again.

As I left, I knew I had made an old guy very happy. Heck, I even made Earl Weaver happy, too!

***

ODDS and ENDS

Please, please, mark your calendars to attend the benefit spaghetti dinner for Rich Lentz on March 23. This is one of those times that the community needs to come together.

Please remember that all registrations for baseball/softball must be received by March 19. Do not be late; get your child registered NOW!

The assessments for Rookie and Minor leagues will be held on March 24. Girls are in the morning from 9-11. The boys will be held from 1-3.

***

Much discussion and speculation has been made over the next SIU head basketball coach. Some of the suggestions are way out in left field. The name of Quinn Snyder was mentioned. Well, does this mean Bruce Pearl should be in the mix? No one with an even half shady past should be in any discussion.

To me there is only one logical choice and that is Rodney Watson. His record as a recruiter is very highly regarded and his experience at the University of Southern Indiana has been proof of his skill in that area.

I read one article that SIU had not even talked to him yet and some fans were already angry about that fact. Let’s think for a minute here. His team is in the Division II playoffs. It would be most inappropriate for any institution or for any coach to be discussing his next job when he has a task ahead of him. As soon as his season ends he will be contacted, I have no doubt.

Coaching is a funny thing. Bruce Weber was once looked upon in godlike proportions. Now he and Chris Lowery are in the same boat. One of Lowery’s problems was that he was too nice and as with Weber took a lot of flak from people not in the know. Expertise is a thing that many fans claim when in reality they are very short on true knowledge. That is why my second choice for a coach would be Lamar’s Pat Knight. I doubt he would worry about a popularity contest.

It is a sad thing to me that Lowery was fired. I do however agree with the decision. He had failed to produce and that was his job to do so. However, he was one of us, as was Rich Herrin. Lowery was a Saluki and contrary to some people thoughts, he was not trying to lose. It did not sadden me when SIU fired Joe Gottfried or Allen Van Winkle. They were not southern Illinois citizens. It did bother me with the way some fans have talked about Lowery and in the past Rich Herrin. Their time had come, though, and it is the nature of the field they have chosen.

My point is this, yes, I hope that Rodney Watson is named the new SIU head basketball coach, but if his time comes to leave, I hope the fans treat him better than they did Rich Herrin or Chris Lowery.

***

THE NEXT INSIDER WILL BE POSTED AFTER THE COMPLETION OF THE NCAA BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT.

***

Until next time,

Pay attention,

Hustle, and always

Use your noodle

Tri-C Insider Volume 295

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 14:50:00 +0000

Volume 295

(All opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author. In no way does this reflect the opinions of members of the Tri-C Youth Athletic Board or any other affiliated with the program.)

For the seventh year, Tri-C Athletics sponsored an annual post-season competition for the children of the program. Not only are the youth involved in this, but also a number of adults look forward to the coaches’ game.

This is the first year that I missed the event and even though I am enjoying my time away, did have thoughts of wishing I could be in two places at the same time. There is no doubt in my mind that I would have dazzled those present in the coaches’ game. Oh well, I guess we will never know for sure.

Somehow my thoughts flashed back to the first such event that we held. Brittany Coogan was the only other board member to join me for that initial one. It was a skills competition and can see the faces of those that are now young adults who were present for that one. On that date, we had only a small number of girls attend, maybe four, but when the boys showed up there was about forty, from 8-13. So many in fact, that I remember being very tired as I walked out of the gym with a few parents and one grandparent. Fortunately, more board members and other adults have helped in recent years.

The winners in each division:

Boys A-Ryan Kinnard

Boys B-Nate Watts

Boys C-Keaton Rosado

Girls A-Reese Herrin

Girls B-Megan Beach

Luke Stritzel finished second in Boys B, Bradon Ingle finished second and Nick Brown third in Boys C, and Alaina Reno finished second and Emma Robinson third in Girls B.

Thanks to Bill Rosado and for pulling this event together. Assisting Bill were Rick Stanley, Burk Watts, Brian Ingle, and Trisha Stottler. Those who missed last Saturday should make a point to be there next year.

***

ODDS and ENDS

Please, please, mark your calendars to attend the benefit spaghetti dinner for Rich Lentz on March 23. This is one of those times that the community needs to come together.

***

Brad Drust, a 2009 graduate of Carterville High School and a pitcher with the Salukis, underwent Tommy John Surgery this past week. Our thoughts and those of the community are with Brad on his recovery and hope to see him on the mound again next spring.

***

This is a reminder to all parents buying equipment this spring. All bats in Cal Ripken baseball (12 and under) must be no more than 2 ¼ diameter. Please, make others aware of this. On the other hand, if someone wants to make me an offer on a 2 5/8 bat in my closet, I will listen to offers. (That’s a joke, son!)

***

This item really struck me when I heard it. Elijah Dukes, one of the most highly regarded high school athletes, ever, out of Florida was arrested, again. Dukes earned four varsity letters in football and baseball and two each in baseball and track. He was offered many D-I scholarships for football, but accepted a contract with the Tampa Bay Rays. Dukes was projected as a future all-star, but in his short career with Tampa and Washington he never fulfilled the promise. Since his MLB career ended in 2008, Dukes has been arrested five times on a various charges. The latest one, on February 23, was most interesting, he was charged with trying to destroy evidence while in the process of being questioned by a police officer. He did so by eating a bag of marijuana. I admit that I am not well versed on the subject, but it would appear to me that this would make for an interesting interrogation by the arresting officer.

***

Read where Lou Dobbs has decided that Dr. Seuss is now indoctrinating a younger generation to think in socialist terms. First, one attacks the Muppets and now one attacks Dr. Seuss. I know many good young people, who are not socialists, who grew up on the Muppets and Dr. Seuss. There is a clinical term for people who have such thoughts and it starts with a p. Sorry, make that a capital P!

***

Almost every year I watch the Oscars. Last night was no exception. Maybe I lack sophistication, but the choice of “The Artist” left me empty. To me a great movie has to make some statement about American life. I suppose that “The Artist” fits that, but did it any more than “The Descendants” or “The Help”, or for that matter, “Moneyball”? Each of those three took an original storyline and made it into a thought provoking, yet enjoyable two hours of viewing. To me “The Artist” lacks that depth of thought. While the cinematic gimmick is original and well made, the storyline itself is old and lacking in true originality.

Sorry but I thought that Clara Bow and John Gilbert had their respective careers end with the “talkies.” Maybe I am way off base here and maybe it truly doesn’t matter, but believe that the superior performance of George Clooney and the above mentioned movies did not get their just due

***

With our basketball season now behind us Tri-C Athletics is planning for the upcoming baseball/softball season. Please make note of the following dates:

Registration dates: Tuesday, Feb. 28; Thursday, March 1; Saturday, March 3; Tuesday, March 6, and Thursday, March 8 at the Junior High multi-purpose room.

The mail-in deadline for all registration is Monday, March 19.

The assessments will be in the junior high gym on Saturday, March 24 – the assessments will be done by league, so that coaches, players, and parents

***

THE NEXT INSIDER WILL BE POSTED THE EVENING OF MARCH 11. WE WILL HAVE THE RULES AND BEGIN OUR NCAA FINAL FOUR CONTEST ON THAT DATE.

***

Until next time,

Pay attention,

Hustle, and always

Use your noodle

Tri-C Insider Volume 294

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:55:00 +0000

Volume 294

(All opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author. In no way does this reflect the opinions of members of the Tri-C Youth Athletic Board or any other affiliated with the program.)

Yesterday pitchers and catchers reported to their respective major league spring training camps. The full squads will report next weekend. In Sarasota, this writer will visit the Orioles’ complex on Tuesday and Thursday this week. A private party will be held on March 3 and the first game is March 5. Yes, I am ready for some BASEBALL!

With baseball on my mind and the fact that today is President’s Day I dusted off an article I wrote five years ago. It is hoped my fictional Presidential team may be a momentary distraction from the realities of politics today. In an attempt to combine history and humor I offer the following.

R. Norman’s Presidential Dream Team:

The lineup:

Leading off, John F. Kennedy, Third Base. JFK’s ability at water sports served him well when he would go swimming into the stands for foul balls. He was very popular with the young fans. A special section in the stadium was named the New Frontier.

Batting second, Theodore Roosevelt, Second Base. Teddy was nothing short of a bully player. His enthusiasm for any competition was beyond belief. He was often heard to yell “charge” when fielding a ground ball.

Batting third, George H. Bush, Centerfield. As a former first baseman (see the trivia contest) and captain of Yale’s baseball team, he was the team’s leading hitter. In being kinder and gentler, he stepped aside to allow Lincoln to play first.

Batting cleanup, Abraham Lincoln, First Base. Abe was a big target for the infielders. Throws rarely got past him. His power was next to none. It is believed that with the “live ball” of today, had he faced current pitchers, he would have hit four score and seven home runs every year.

Batting fifth, Gerald Ford, Leftfield. This former football star from the University of Michigan made the transition to baseball with ease. Ford could have been even better had he not been so injury-prone. He led the league in running into walls trying to catch fly balls.

Batting sixth, Dwight Eisenhower, Shortstop. As with Ford, he played college football. He was a member of the team at West Point. Ike was fairly soft-spoken, but when he made a decision to go on the attack, he went full-force. He was the true General of the infield.

Batting seventh, William Howard Taft, Catcher. At well over 300 pounds, Taft was not the most finely tuned athlete in the mix. His strength came in the fact that, as a catcher, no wild pitches could have gotten to the side of his mass.

Batting eighth, Ronald Reagan, Right field. Reagan not only played George Gipp, but also baseball Hall-of-Famer, Grover Cleveland Alexander. In both movies, he looked great in a uniform. He probably could have been higher in the line-up, except he began his career as a Cub announcer.

Batting ninth, George Washington, Pitcher. All of the things you looked for in a starting pitcher reside in Washington. He had a great arm. It was reported that he once threw a dollar across the Potomac River (granted, a dollar does not go as far today, but still very impressive). With Washington starting for us, is it any wonder that this team and our country have been great for over 200 years.

***

ODDS and ENDS

Please try to attend our annual shoot-out to be held this coming Saturday, February 25, at Tri-C Elementary. The shoot-out will take place from 10:00-1:00. After the completion of that, held we will have our coaches’ game. This year, it is planned, that the coaches will play the referees. It should be a fun time.

Also, please, please, mark your calendars to attend the benefit spaghetti dinner for Rich Lentz on March 23. This is one of those times that the community needs to come together.

A few other dates are listed at the bottom of this column.

***

Rick Stanley, Jim Hunsaker, and Jim Wallace recently met with Mayor Mausey and Phyllis Emery and John Gooden from the city council. The recommended improvements to James Street and Cannon Parks from the meeting were acted upon by the council at large this past week.

They include safety issues regarding the trees and improvement in the parking lot at James Street. Cannon Park will become a facility that can be utilized by the older age groups.

A big thank you is due those mentioned above from Tri-C Youth Athletics and to those members of the City Council who supported the proposed improvements.

***

Hall of Famer, Gary Carter passed away this week at the age of 57. Even though he was never a favorite of mine, probably due to which teams he was a member. The smiling Carter was an eleven time all-star. Carter made himself into a good catcher, after beginning his MLB career as an outfielder. At that time, the Montreal Expos had a number of young talented outfielders including Warren Cromartie, Ellis Valentine, and Andre Dawson. It was a natural move to put Carter behind the plate, full time, and it became a great move for that franchise as well as the Mets after he was traded there.

One of the things that I will remember best about Carter was long after his playing career. Tim McCarver had Carter, Johnny Bench, Yogi Berra, and Carlton Fisk on his talk show. The four Hall of Fame catchers did not disappoint this viewer. Catchers are a different breed and some of the points were made with a fire not necessarily found in retired athletes.

Highlights of the show included Yogi maintaining Jackie Robinson was out on his famous steal of home plate off Whitey Ford in the 1955 World Series. I have watched film of this at least a 100 times, over the years, and Yogi was right. Even though the others laughed at Yogi’s insistence, he did not budge an inch. It obviously was a matter of pride, even over 50 years later, and he was not going to find any humor in people giving any credibility to Robinson being safe.

Another highlight was Carlton Fisk sharing a conversation he had with Deion Sanders in his short lived baseball career. Sanders was performing one of his show off routines, which were well known to NFL fans, when Fisk slowly walked in front of the plate and told Sanders in no uncertain terms that this was major league baseball and he could knock off his #$%& or he would kick him in the posterior right there on the spot, if he didn’t act like a big leaguer. Somehow I believe Fisk meant it.

Carter added some insight into the personality conflicts that the Mets had in the 1980s. It was one of the best hours of television that I have ever seen. If you are a baseball fan and never watched it, you have missed something.

***

The death and subsequent coverage of Whitney Houston has been the biggest news story of the week. We sometimes seem to have knack for going over the top when it comes to celebrities. In no way am I down playing the talents she possessed and the fact that she was important to many. However, this kind of reminds me of when Princess Dianna died. In the same week Mother Theresa died, but the latter received very little news coverage. Maybe, this is because it is younger people dying well before what would be there normal life span. I do not know the answer here, but do believe that if former Presidents Carter or George H, W. Bush had died this week, Ms. Houston would have received more coverage than either. Enough said! It is just something to think about.

***

In addition to celebrating our anniversary, enjoying some great weather, making new friends, and winning $3.00 playing pinochle, I received a facebook note that brought a smile to my face.

It was sent to me by Gail Johnson, who said---thinking of you today…we get back from JJ’s 5^th/6^th game…which we won by quite a bit…but out of the blue he says…”Mom, why can’t Roger ref our games? I wish he could!” The timing could not have been better; no more than an hour before I had told Martha that I missed Tri-C basketball and, in particular, being able to officiate the games.

Thanks Gail and Justin. Some may disagree with you, but I truly appreciate it.

***

What in the world was ESPN thinking in running a racially insensitive tag on the success of Jeremy Lin? I will hope that the intent of the writer was not to be so, but regardless, something was going on in his cranium that I do not understand.

***

Again, a big thank you goes to Dave Draper and Bill Rosado for passing along the information to post standings. The final standings may be found under each individual league. They also provided this writer the information to update our scoring leaders. The final list of leading scores is listed below.

Scoring Leaders

Boys A

1 Nik Lamb--------------------166

2 Christian Albert-------------110

3 Ryan Gaddis-----------------85

4 Matt Turner------------------82

5 Connor Bybee---------------72

**Alex Meade-----------------72

7 Brandon Teal----------------66

8 Brock Evraets----------------57

9 Dante Boens-----------------54

10 Kestutis Lazdinis----------54

11 Markas Lazdinis-----------52

12 Grant Garbe----------------46

13 Isaac Cordero--------------39

14 Ethan Krumrey------------38

15 Austin Knight-------------26

16 Zach Schlindwein--------22

17 Hunter Whitecotton-----20

18 Noah Farris----------------18

**Austin Hodge--------------18

20 Seth Rhoades--------------16

Boys B

1 Luke Stritzel-----------------92

2 Trent Glidewell-------------85

3 Cedric Jordan---------------72

4 Tyler Bittle------------------58

5 Cody Rector-----------------56

6 Peter Baker------------------55

7 Keenan Williams-----------49

8 Connor Hawkins------------40

9 Haden Vaughn--------------38

9 Caleb Knight----------------36

10 Cameron Hall--------------35

11 Luke Brown----------------29

**Zack Smith------------------29

13 Mitchell Kidd--------------28

** Carson Pearson-------------28

15 Travon Boens---------------26

**Tanner Sizemore------------26

17 Colin Laczynski------------24

18 Nate Watts------------------23

19 Logan Jerrells--------------21

20 Nick Hunter----------------19

**Jaxon North-----------------19

Boys C

1 Bryce Anderson------------65

2 Nick Brown-----------------57

3 Taylor Siemer---------------51

4 Ben Haake-------------------41

5 Eric Bybee-------------------33

6 Matthew Wallace------------30

7 Quentin Myers---------------27

8 Max Poole--------------------24

9 Keaton Rosado---------------21

10 Bradon Ingle----------------20

11 Lance Thomas--------------17

12 Graham Dynis--------------14

13 DeAndre Boens------------10

14 Clay Webb-------------------8

15 Mikey Null-------------------7

16 Brody Eigenraugh----------6

**Matthew Edwards-------=--6

**Aiden Liss---------------------6

19 Aiden Harris-----------------4

20 Chase Gibbs------------------3

**Connor Giblin----------------3

Girls A

1 Caitlyn Culp-----------------113

2 Brittney Morgan-------------64

3 Brittany Swain---------------50

4 Taylor Morgan---------------49

5 Brianna Perry----------------42

6 Hannah Hooks---------------36

7 Georgie Ren------------------28

8 Maria Starkey----------------27

9 McKenzie Rogman---------25

10 Summer Rains--------------24

11 Madilyn Billington--------20

**Sydney Billington----------20

13 Elizabeth Dennison-------18

14 Kate Crosby----------------17

15 Erin Robertson-------------16

16 Reese Herrin----------------11

17 Alexi Swalls----------------10

18 Shelby Olson----------------8

**Olivia Stearns----------------8

20 Kelli Halliday---------------4

**Delaney Howerton----------4

Girls B

1 Abbey Crain----------------109

2 Madison Fleege--------------65

3 Megan Beach----------------61

4 Julia Stroud------------------58

5 Emma Robinson------------56

6 Alaina Reno-----------------32

7 Abigail Krumrey-----------30

8 Emma Watson--------------24

9 Emily Perry-----------------21

10 Maddie Campbell---------19

11 Mallory Sizemore---------17

12 Averi Vanderzille---------15

13 Allie Hottensen-----------12

14 Jayden Stanley------------11

15 Maddie Olson-------------10

16 Kirsten Jordan--------------9

17 Courtney Larimar----------8

**Maddie Olson---------------8

19 Audrey Norman------------7

20 Gracie Laczynski----------4

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With our basketball season now behind us Tri-C Athletics is planning for the upcoming baseball/softball season. Please make note of the following dates:

Registration dates: Tuesday, Feb. 28; Thursday, March 1; Saturday, March 3; Tuesday, March 6, and Thursday, March 8 at the Junior High multi-purpose room.

The mail-in deadline for all registration is Monday, March 19.

The assessments will be in the junior high gym on Saturday, March 24 – the assessments will be done by league, so that coaches, players and parents have specific time frames.

The draft will be held on March 25.

The first practice will be Saturday, March 31, and games will begin on Saturday, May 5.

Fun Day is Saturday, June 2.