thru Dec 19

 RED LEAGUE SALUTE:   We salute our spouses and loved ones who support and encourage us, for a brief moment, to play like little kids again.  We come home with stories of triumph or anguish, with scrapes and cuts and strains and black eyes, and yet somehow, we turn that into a positive experience knowing we laid it on the line for our team that day. We know and appreciate our pains of play are so trivial compared to those endearing much larger pains and battles.  We play for you.   

GAME REPORTS

HAPPY EARS 23   GENERAL EXTERMINATING 15

Jeffs take:   The Happy Ears 6 plus their 4 subs (Pioli, Finer, Coleman and White) returned to the win column with a convincing 23-15 victory over Chuck’s General Exterminating team. The game was close after 5 with the Happy Ears team leading 14-11 however. Chuck’s team came roaring back and tied up the game 15-15 after 6. The open inning was all “Ears” as with one out and no one on base, the next 8 hitters safely reached base, the highlight  being Gary Finer’s grand slam homer over the left center field fence. We finally had some breathing run in the open inning with our best run production of the season. Shutting out Chuck’s  high powered offense in three inning also helped secure the victory. The team spread the offense around very evenly as every player scored at least one run, led by Al Caillouette scoring four times. Besides scoring 4 runs today, Al played a solid shortstop, making some key defensive plays and contributing 4 hits. Every player had at least one hit with Dilree, McKeever Coleman, Pioli, White, Finer and the coach, all contributing multiple, clutch hits. Thanks to the umpiring crew and scoreboard operator. A special thanks to Craig and Linda Nelson for providing post game pizza and to those who brought all the other culinary delights. The entire Happy Ears team wishes all of the Red league players and families, a safe, healthy and happy holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Happy Ears returns to action on January 7, 2025 at 9:45 when they tangle with Tom and Paul’s team. Purchase you tickets now before the price increase that goes is to affect January 1, 2025.

Chucks take:  The General Exterminating Team lost to Happy Ears 23 to 15.  The lead changed a few times through the first 5 innings of play.  By the end of the 6^thframe, the Bug  Zappers and Jeff Silversteen and Dennis Scroggin’s lineup were tied at 15 runs.  In the open inning, Happy Ears mounted an 8 run rally and was able to hold us scoreless in the hammer frame resulting in their win.  Moondoggie Anderson had our only 3/3 perfect day at the plate followed by Dave Dorn’s 4 knock effort.  Jay Schirpke, Craig Nelson, JC Cowan, and Dale Halder all chimed in with their 3 hit performances. Special thanks to John Nicodemo for helping us out this week, the umpires and scoreboard operator.  Kudos to Craig and Linda Nelson for supplying the pizza and all the others who contributed their specialties to our enjoyable post-game festivities. Wishing you all an enjoyable and safe holiday season with your families and friends.

GOTHIC LANDSCAPING 17   SUSYS HOME CLEANING 10

Robs take:  Gothic congratulates our buddy and quiet leader Scott Kibby on a spectacular day at short stop, not to mention going 4 for 4, a grand slam and 6RBI’s.   A good days work. John Blevins and freshman Brian Combs also had 4 hits, with Ron Coleman spotting a hat trick.   Thanks to our subs, umps, scorekeepers, to Craig and Linda, and to all those who provided goodies and delightful K beers.   Last but not least, the Gothic team wishes Joe Pioli all the best as he heads back to work in Iraq. Safe travels.

Lisa’s take:  Susie's cleaning was unable to hold off Gothic today in their 10 to 17 loss today. Thank you to Dave Fusaro, Terry Graves, JD Dillre and Matt Seelinger for subbing. We have a 2-week break for the holiday. Happy holidays everyone!

CHAR WHEELER  15     PAUL TONE INSURANCE  8

Erics take:  Char Wheeler came away with a win 15-8 against a tough Paul Tone team today. It was another beautiful day at the “Field of Dreams”. Char will go into the Holliday break with a 2 game lead on General Exterminating and Gothic.  A big THANK YOU to Craig and Linda today and everyone else that assisted with the wonderful “after hours”treats.  It was another great day for Pete Semenak 4-4, also with 4 hits, Al Callouette, and Dave Zuke (6 RBI’s). With 3 hits Glen Soles, Greg Kastelic, and Kirk Andes. Thank you Al for subbing today. Thank you to Don Ranieri and Dave Lawrence for umpiring and Scott Kibby in the tower.

Toms take:  Tough times for the Paul Tone boys.  Too many errors and not enough timely hitting.  However, it seems everyone enjoyed the game, the day, the season and the friendship to be had at the post game holiday celebration.  Thanks to Craig and Linda Nelson for the pizzas.  Thank you to everyone else that contributed to a great spread of holiday cheer and food!  Highlight of today's game...Fusaro owes a 30 pack.  Had to really dig for a highlight!  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!