In round two of the playoffs the Zeppelins posted a quality effort against the undefeated #2 seed Board of Regents “Regulators” last night at Independence Park. This marked one of the best games LED has played in three seasons, and one of the closest matches the Regulators had all year.
LED fielded 12 players who tallied 10 hits, resulting in 5 runs. In the second inning, Russell “Rusty” Richardson legged out an infield single followed by a Steven Grissom single to left center. Leigh Ann Burton added another single to left center to load the bases for Devin Harrison. Devin’s single into the outfield gap scored both Eddie and Steven, who put on a burst of speed to outrun a throw into the plate. In the third inning Jeffrey Bashaw legged out an infield single, and not to be “out-speeded” by Steven, turned an Eddie James single into a mad dash for home. His head-first diving slide at the plate shocked the Regulators and allowed Eddie to stretch his hit to a double. Paige Ovens tacked on an RBI single scoring Eddie, and putting the Zeppelins on top 4-3. LED’s final score came in the fourth when Devin started a two-out hitting streak by blasting yet another one up the middle. Eric tacked on a single to set the stage for Gary Beadle, whose shot to left center scored Devin.
The Regulators had several strong batters and garnered 17 hits in the game. But the Zeppelin defense kept picking off lead runners and held the Regulators to only 7 runs.
2013 was a big success for the Zeppelins and all are looking forward to a great season next year.
Singles: Jayson, Chelsea, Eddie, Paige, Russell (2), Steven, Leigh Ann, Devin (2), Eric (2), Gary, Jeffrey.
Doubles: Devin, Eddie.
RBIs: Devin (2), Eddie, Paige, Gary.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communication & Marketing), Devin Harris (Business Development), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Jeffrey Bashaw (SEC), Katie Richardson (Russell’s wife), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Russell Richardson (Business Development), and Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary).
3RD BASE COACH: Will Day (Business Development)
FANS: Chelsea’s beau Brandon Dufrene and Russell’s son Mills.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Thursday, September 12, 2013
LED Notches First Post-Season Victory, Defeating DNR 4-2
The Zeppelins took their first win in the playoffs last night against the Department of Natural Resources “Drillers” at Independence Park. The players were stoked at having risen to Steven Grissom’s pre-season challenge of winning a playoff game. Secretary Stephen Moret, who was on the phone with Grissom at the end of the game, was the first to congratulate the team on the win. Hey, Business Plan Item # 11 - CHECK!
LED played well on both sides of the game, fielding 14 players, notching 4 runs on 14 hits (four of them doubles), while holding the Drillers to only 2 runs on 7 hits. Russell Richardson led the offense with a double that drove in 2 RBI’s. Jayson Newell went 2 for 3 with a double and an RBI, and Paige Ovens added the final RBI on an infield sacrifice.
After the Zeppelins went scoreless in the first, Devin Harrison tapped a two-out double in the second, but was left stranded. Then in the third the Zeppelins lit it up. Eric Burton’s single up the middle followed by Steven’s double to left field put two runs in scoring position for Russell, who knocked one deep into the outfield gap. After clearing the bases, Russell then scored when Jayson followed up with another double to the outfield. That’s right – a three-double, three-run inning – a first and a big record for the Zeppelins. Singles by Jayson and Chelsea Harris in the seventh, set the stage for Paige Ovens, who scored Jayson on a sacrifice to second base.
On defense, Chelsea showed off her guns at third base as she hummed the ball to first on several plays to put batters out. On one of her plays the Drillers congratulated their thrown-out batter on a great effort, but noted that Chelsea “has a great arm.” Paige played a tough second base and robbed a Driller by snagging a hard line drive up the middle. Eric made some mad plays from shortstop and assisted in the defensive play of the game when he rifled a throw into Eddie James at home, to tag the runner attempting to slide in at the plate. Coach Linda Regira had to call the runner out as she noticed he was still six inches from the plate when the play was over. (That translates to “Eddie got him by blocking the plate with his body to stop the score.”) Eddie had another “Eddie Only” inning by getting all three batters out with his defensive magic.
Additional kudos go to Eddie for acting as team strategist, developing the lineup, and deciding the defensive rotations. Dennis Barbier carried the equipment and kept the book. Paige not only supplied the water but lugged the ice chest out to the field (hand carried/no wheels).
LED will face the Board of Regents at Independence Park next week, date/time TBD. Please join the team at the field and show your support.
Singles: Jayson, Chelsea (2), Eddie, Matt, Linda, Eric, Steven, Christian and Jeffrey.
Doubles: Devin, Steven, Russell and Jayson.
RBIs: Russell (2), Jayson, Paige.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communication & Marketing), Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Devin Harris (Business Development), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Jeffrey Bashaw (SEC), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Russell Richardson (Business Development), and Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary).
FANS: Chelsea’s beau Brandon Dufrene and Devin’s wife Shelly and precious daughter Harper.
LED played well on both sides of the game, fielding 14 players, notching 4 runs on 14 hits (four of them doubles), while holding the Drillers to only 2 runs on 7 hits. Russell Richardson led the offense with a double that drove in 2 RBI’s. Jayson Newell went 2 for 3 with a double and an RBI, and Paige Ovens added the final RBI on an infield sacrifice.
After the Zeppelins went scoreless in the first, Devin Harrison tapped a two-out double in the second, but was left stranded. Then in the third the Zeppelins lit it up. Eric Burton’s single up the middle followed by Steven’s double to left field put two runs in scoring position for Russell, who knocked one deep into the outfield gap. After clearing the bases, Russell then scored when Jayson followed up with another double to the outfield. That’s right – a three-double, three-run inning – a first and a big record for the Zeppelins. Singles by Jayson and Chelsea Harris in the seventh, set the stage for Paige Ovens, who scored Jayson on a sacrifice to second base.
On defense, Chelsea showed off her guns at third base as she hummed the ball to first on several plays to put batters out. On one of her plays the Drillers congratulated their thrown-out batter on a great effort, but noted that Chelsea “has a great arm.” Paige played a tough second base and robbed a Driller by snagging a hard line drive up the middle. Eric made some mad plays from shortstop and assisted in the defensive play of the game when he rifled a throw into Eddie James at home, to tag the runner attempting to slide in at the plate. Coach Linda Regira had to call the runner out as she noticed he was still six inches from the plate when the play was over. (That translates to “Eddie got him by blocking the plate with his body to stop the score.”) Eddie had another “Eddie Only” inning by getting all three batters out with his defensive magic.
Additional kudos go to Eddie for acting as team strategist, developing the lineup, and deciding the defensive rotations. Dennis Barbier carried the equipment and kept the book. Paige not only supplied the water but lugged the ice chest out to the field (hand carried/no wheels).
LED will face the Board of Regents at Independence Park next week, date/time TBD. Please join the team at the field and show your support.
Singles: Jayson, Chelsea (2), Eddie, Matt, Linda, Eric, Steven, Christian and Jeffrey.
Doubles: Devin, Steven, Russell and Jayson.
RBIs: Russell (2), Jayson, Paige.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communication & Marketing), Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Devin Harris (Business Development), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Jeffrey Bashaw (SEC), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Russell Richardson (Business Development), and Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary).
FANS: Chelsea’s beau Brandon Dufrene and Devin’s wife Shelly and precious daughter Harper.
Thursday, September 5, 2013
The Zeppelins Head to the Playoffs to face Department of Natural Resources
In 2013 the Zeppelins posted a record-high 4 wins to end with a .500 average for the season. The next hurdle is the playoffs, with 10 of the 18 league teams battling it out in postseason play. The Department of Natural Resources, who had the same record as LED, is on the menu next week. LED hasn’t met DNR on the field since 2011 – when LED whooped their *&$(#)@’s. (See the story here: LED vs DNR). The Zeppelins look forward to meeting them again and beating them again.
Last week was a bit of a disappointment for the team. Heading into the final regular season game of the year, the Zeppelins had a chance to move to 5-3 and notch a winning season. But it just wasn’t in the cards. Not only did the teams have to play in the blazing heat and mud, but LED had the benefit of having to play short-handed. Coach Linda Regira had to get off the injured list and get on the field in a skirt, barefooted, with only one working hand . That’s how desperate the Zeppelins were for players.
Despite the disadvantage, LED managed to put a few memorable plays together and did relatively well at the plate. On offense, Eddie James went 3 for 4, Eric Burton, Paige Ovens and Matthew Wattigny all went 2 for 3, and Jayson Newell tapped out a double. Gary Beadle, Christian Pennington and Jeffrey Bashaw all tallied RBI’s.
GOHSEP #1 put up two monster hits that pushed them over the Zeppelins. Actually, there were players from GOHSEP #2 on the team that were recognized from a game earlier in the season. Someone should consult the rules to see if players are allowed to be on more than one team per season.
The Zeppelins need a few more female players to make it through the playoffs and keep at least four women on the field at all times. Here is the latest from the Capitol Complex Softball League Commissioner:
"No more than six men may play in the field. I repeat: no more than six men may play in the field. Again: no more than six men may play in the field. Are there any questions about the rule that no more than six men may play in the field?"
LED will face DNR at Independence Park on Wednesday, September 11 at 6:00 PM. Please join the team at the field and show your support.
Singles: Paige (2), Eddie (3), Chelsea, Gary, Eric (2), Matthew (2), Christian, Jeffrey.
Double: Jayson Newell
RBIs: Gary, Christian and Jeffrey.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communication & Marketing, Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Jeffrey Bashaw (SEC), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Paige Ovens (Business Development),
FANS: Susan Bigner (Business Incentives), her son Adam Delaney, and his friend Jonathan.
Last week was a bit of a disappointment for the team. Heading into the final regular season game of the year, the Zeppelins had a chance to move to 5-3 and notch a winning season. But it just wasn’t in the cards. Not only did the teams have to play in the blazing heat and mud, but LED had the benefit of having to play short-handed. Coach Linda Regira had to get off the injured list and get on the field in a skirt, barefooted, with only one working hand . That’s how desperate the Zeppelins were for players.
Despite the disadvantage, LED managed to put a few memorable plays together and did relatively well at the plate. On offense, Eddie James went 3 for 4, Eric Burton, Paige Ovens and Matthew Wattigny all went 2 for 3, and Jayson Newell tapped out a double. Gary Beadle, Christian Pennington and Jeffrey Bashaw all tallied RBI’s.
GOHSEP #1 put up two monster hits that pushed them over the Zeppelins. Actually, there were players from GOHSEP #2 on the team that were recognized from a game earlier in the season. Someone should consult the rules to see if players are allowed to be on more than one team per season.
The Zeppelins need a few more female players to make it through the playoffs and keep at least four women on the field at all times. Here is the latest from the Capitol Complex Softball League Commissioner:
"No more than six men may play in the field. I repeat: no more than six men may play in the field. Again: no more than six men may play in the field. Are there any questions about the rule that no more than six men may play in the field?"
LED will face DNR at Independence Park on Wednesday, September 11 at 6:00 PM. Please join the team at the field and show your support.
Singles: Paige (2), Eddie (3), Chelsea, Gary, Eric (2), Matthew (2), Christian, Jeffrey.
Double: Jayson Newell
RBIs: Gary, Christian and Jeffrey.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communication & Marketing, Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Jeffrey Bashaw (SEC), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Paige Ovens (Business Development),
FANS: Susan Bigner (Business Incentives), her son Adam Delaney, and his friend Jonathan.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
I'll Have Two Scoops with that Victory Please
The Zeppelins turned up the juice against the Governor’s Office “Capital Punishment” squad last night at Perkins Road Park, sparking an 11-1 victory and clinching a playoff berth as the team moved to 4-3 on the season. “You realize this win officially doubles last year’s wins,” Paige Ovens reminded everyone. It felt good and the smiles were showing everywhere.
Hey, don’t they work at the Capitol? And what was with the Captain America shirts? One of the Zeppelins noted that it was really nice of them to put a target on their shirts for us.
Updating the record books, LED fielded 14 players and notched 24 hits, three of them doubles and one a triple. The offensive player of the game accolades go to Russell Richardson who went 3 for 3 with a triple and four (count them!) RBI’s. That was a monster effort at the plate and a record which might prove hard to beat. Following closely on his heels was Chelsea Harris who also went 3 for 3, knocking two doubles and scoring two RBI’s on three hard shots down the left field line. Eddie James went 2 for 3 with a double, and Gary Beadle and Eric Burton both went 2 for 3 with two RBI’s a piece. Jayson Newell went 2 for 3 with an RBI while Chris Stelly, Paige and Katie Richardson all went 2 for 3. Katie hit a beautiful shot over the short fielder’s head, her best hit of the season so far. Steven Grissom, Matthew Wattigny and Jeffrey Bashaw all went 1 for 2. Jeffrey shocked everyone when he legged out a single to the infield with a burst of speed no one anticipated. Jeffrey had a solid first effort as a Zeppelin and if he can get out of future late-night meetings at the office he might just be the answer to the team’s loss of former Bucknell track star Sarah Vanden Broek who provided many fantastic pinch runs in prior seasons.
On defense, the Zeppelins played outstanding as well, putting up two double plays (both led by Paige) and a lot of back-handed grabs, while holding the Governor’s Office to a single run. Eddie is still waiting for the shut-out from the mound, but was happy with the Zeppelin’s performance anyway. Paige and Eric blanketed the middle infield, making it tough for the opponents to build any momentum. The defensive play of the game came in the top of the fifth inning when the Punishment’s toughest hitter blasted a shot that hit the ground right at Eddie’s feet. He made an outstanding scoop and threw to first, where his throw landed just before the outstretched foot of Steven. Steven’s awesome scoop locked in the out and put the cherry on top of the two-scoop treat.
Super fan Mills Richardson arrived at the field and immediately discovered two little boy’s dreams. The first was an open culvert that he could roll a ball through back and forth at will. The second was a new best friend who spent nearly the entire game playing ball with him outside the fence (Paige’s boyfriend David - what a nice guy!)
In an interesting note Shoeless Joe, the Punishment’s shortstop, actually played without shoes. Coach Regira offered to loan him a pair of cleats which he declined. He probably should have accepted because both of his would-be hits resulted in double plays by Paige.
Team spy Russell Richardson texted from Zippy’s that he was watching the Punishment’s licking their wounds and drowning their sorrows with pitchers of beer after the game. How sweet it is!
Since Coach Regira has now moved herself to the injured reserve list with a multitude of old-age infirmities, she was able to add a new element to her normal multi-tasking role as the head of an awesome LED team:
• Showing up at least one hour early in the stifling heat (97 degrees with a heat index of 106) to reserve a field while trying not to melt
• Lugging the equipment out to the field while trying not to pass out
• Developing a Moneyball line-up (believing in EVERYTHING Brad Pitt says)
• Calling the plays during the action (like yelling to Katie Richardson, “Three, three, three” – meaning throw it to third base – as she threw it to shortstop, “or to that guy.”)
• Reminding the team of the out-count
• Keeping the book
• Encouraging the players and cheering mightily
• Seeing and hearing everything that might be good additions to the news articles
• Cracking super funny jokes
• Playing head games with the opponents
• Writing top-notch articles on game highlights
• Taking pictures (see below) !!!!!
!!!! Denotes best role.
The Zeppelins will have a week off to rest, and then will take on the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness team in a rain-out make-up game on Tuesday, August 20 at 6:00 at Independence Park.
Singles: Paige (2), Eddie, Chelsea, Gary (2), Eric (2), Chris (2), Russell (2), Jayson (2), Leigh Ann, Katie (2), Matt, Jeffrey, Steven.
Doubles: Eddie, Chelsea (2).
Triple: Russell
RBIs: Chelsea (2), Gary (2), Eric (2), Russell (4), Jayson
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communication & Marketing), Chris Stelly (Entertainment), Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Jeffrey Bashaw (SEC), Katie Richardson (Russell’s wife), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife); Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Russell Richardson (Business Development), and Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary).
FANS: Mills Richardson (Russell’s son) and David (Paige’s boyfriend).
Hey, don’t they work at the Capitol? And what was with the Captain America shirts? One of the Zeppelins noted that it was really nice of them to put a target on their shirts for us.
Updating the record books, LED fielded 14 players and notched 24 hits, three of them doubles and one a triple. The offensive player of the game accolades go to Russell Richardson who went 3 for 3 with a triple and four (count them!) RBI’s. That was a monster effort at the plate and a record which might prove hard to beat. Following closely on his heels was Chelsea Harris who also went 3 for 3, knocking two doubles and scoring two RBI’s on three hard shots down the left field line. Eddie James went 2 for 3 with a double, and Gary Beadle and Eric Burton both went 2 for 3 with two RBI’s a piece. Jayson Newell went 2 for 3 with an RBI while Chris Stelly, Paige and Katie Richardson all went 2 for 3. Katie hit a beautiful shot over the short fielder’s head, her best hit of the season so far. Steven Grissom, Matthew Wattigny and Jeffrey Bashaw all went 1 for 2. Jeffrey shocked everyone when he legged out a single to the infield with a burst of speed no one anticipated. Jeffrey had a solid first effort as a Zeppelin and if he can get out of future late-night meetings at the office he might just be the answer to the team’s loss of former Bucknell track star Sarah Vanden Broek who provided many fantastic pinch runs in prior seasons.
On defense, the Zeppelins played outstanding as well, putting up two double plays (both led by Paige) and a lot of back-handed grabs, while holding the Governor’s Office to a single run. Eddie is still waiting for the shut-out from the mound, but was happy with the Zeppelin’s performance anyway. Paige and Eric blanketed the middle infield, making it tough for the opponents to build any momentum. The defensive play of the game came in the top of the fifth inning when the Punishment’s toughest hitter blasted a shot that hit the ground right at Eddie’s feet. He made an outstanding scoop and threw to first, where his throw landed just before the outstretched foot of Steven. Steven’s awesome scoop locked in the out and put the cherry on top of the two-scoop treat.
Super fan Mills Richardson arrived at the field and immediately discovered two little boy’s dreams. The first was an open culvert that he could roll a ball through back and forth at will. The second was a new best friend who spent nearly the entire game playing ball with him outside the fence (Paige’s boyfriend David - what a nice guy!)
In an interesting note Shoeless Joe, the Punishment’s shortstop, actually played without shoes. Coach Regira offered to loan him a pair of cleats which he declined. He probably should have accepted because both of his would-be hits resulted in double plays by Paige.
Team spy Russell Richardson texted from Zippy’s that he was watching the Punishment’s licking their wounds and drowning their sorrows with pitchers of beer after the game. How sweet it is!
Since Coach Regira has now moved herself to the injured reserve list with a multitude of old-age infirmities, she was able to add a new element to her normal multi-tasking role as the head of an awesome LED team:
• Showing up at least one hour early in the stifling heat (97 degrees with a heat index of 106) to reserve a field while trying not to melt
• Lugging the equipment out to the field while trying not to pass out
• Developing a Moneyball line-up (believing in EVERYTHING Brad Pitt says)
• Calling the plays during the action (like yelling to Katie Richardson, “Three, three, three” – meaning throw it to third base – as she threw it to shortstop, “or to that guy.”)
• Reminding the team of the out-count
• Keeping the book
• Encouraging the players and cheering mightily
• Seeing and hearing everything that might be good additions to the news articles
• Cracking super funny jokes
• Playing head games with the opponents
• Writing top-notch articles on game highlights
• Taking pictures (see below) !!!!!
!!!! Denotes best role.
The Zeppelins will have a week off to rest, and then will take on the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness team in a rain-out make-up game on Tuesday, August 20 at 6:00 at Independence Park.
Singles: Paige (2), Eddie, Chelsea, Gary (2), Eric (2), Chris (2), Russell (2), Jayson (2), Leigh Ann, Katie (2), Matt, Jeffrey, Steven.
Doubles: Eddie, Chelsea (2).
Triple: Russell
RBIs: Chelsea (2), Gary (2), Eric (2), Russell (4), Jayson
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communication & Marketing), Chris Stelly (Entertainment), Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Jeffrey Bashaw (SEC), Katie Richardson (Russell’s wife), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife); Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Russell Richardson (Business Development), and Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary).
FANS: Mills Richardson (Russell’s son) and David (Paige’s boyfriend).
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Raven Steps Up for the Zeppelins
The Zeppelins played exceptional defense last night against a tough CRT-Office of Cultural Development team in a nearly error-free game.
Shy a few female players, the Zeppelins, certainly no strangers to recruiting from the stands, added 13-year old Raven Moore (Melissa and Victor’s daughter) to the lineup in order to take the field. She did a fantastic job in her first time as a Zeppelin. Raven hit two solid shots to the shortstop and the second baseman at her two at-bats, and was barely thrown out at first while running in sandals. In cleats, she would have embarrassed them both, as daddy Victor Moore made sure to point out. On defense, she played a roving short field and closed the gap up the middle. The “Developers” didn’t even attempt to hit it in her direction.
OCD took an early lead in the top of the first, scoring three runs with some solid at-bats. The Zeppelins then got into a rhythm and kept OCD scoreless in the second. OCD added one more run in the third, and then it became a defensive battle on both sides resulting in another three scoreless innings.
DEFENSIVE HIGHLIGHTS:
Michael Pernici threw a batter out at first base from a line drive in right field (WHOO HOO); Gary Beadle and Matthew Wattigny caught multiple flies in the outfield. Eric Burton, Melissa Moore and Steven Grissom combined for multiple infield outs. Eddie James fired a throw into third to Victor Moore who tagged a runner mistakenly attempting to run home.
OFFENSIVE HIGHLIGHTS:
Melissa, who went 2 for 3, hit a scorcher down the third base line that went out into no-man’s land in left field. Eddie did the same thing down the first base line, going 3 for 3 for the night. Steven also put up a 2 for 3 effort at the plate.
Leu Anne Greco and hubby Cyrus showed up with Mai Tai-injected watermelons for the team. This time they remembered to bring some un-tampered ones so no children would be forced to cry at the injustice of it all. In the top of the fifth inning Coach Linda Regira suggested sharing some with OCD to impair their defense, but the ploy did not work.
Although the Zeppelins couldn’t outscore OCD, the Zeppelins definitely had the best after-party and the doctored watermelons hit the spot. A few Zeppelins were spotted grabbing an extra slice (or 2) for the ride home.
Leu Anne and Cyrus supplied the wacky watermelons, Matthew and Christian assisted with the book, Eddie hauled the equipment in and Christian hauled it out. And an extra special thanks to Eddie James, who took control of the team last week and did an outstanding job both as coach and ace reporter.
On a final note, while at the Sage Summit in D.C. last week, Coach Regira kept hearing whispers of a scandal on the Zeppelin team that she could never get full details on from such a long distance – and unable to get these pertinent facts, she could not expose the culprit(s). All she has been heard saying this week is, “The charges are completely unfounded.”
Next week the Zeppelins take on the Governor’s Office staff from the Capitol, sure to be an exciting match of wits. The game will be at 6:30 P.M. on Wednesday, August 7, at Perkins Road Park (Kenilworth). The Zeppelins hope to see everyone there.
Hits: Eddie (3), Steven (2), Melissa, Victor.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Melissa Moore (Business Incentives), Michael Pernici (Lead Development), Raven Moore (Melissa & Victor’s daughter), Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary), and Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband).
FANS: Leu Anne and Cyrus Greco with an ice chest full of wacky melons and Raven Moore (for a few minutes until being recruited to play).
AAAAHHHHHH………
Mai Tai Melons
8 parts rum (definitely aged amber or dark, half white OK, some spiced if available)
3 parts lime juice
2 parts orange curacao or Triple Sec
1 part orgeat (substitute a tiny bit of almond extract)
1 part (or to taste) simple syrup
Moroccan bitters (optional; or substitute very tiny amount of cardamom/ginger/clove/cinnamon)
Shake well (without ice – needs to be strong & undiluted, remember it will be diluted by the watermelon juice).
Slowly inject into a whole watermelon (with a Cajun Injector, 3 to 6 syringes depending upon size of melon; be prepared to close holes with tape/toothpick to prevent immediate eruptions; don’t worry about leakage) and chill.
Shy a few female players, the Zeppelins, certainly no strangers to recruiting from the stands, added 13-year old Raven Moore (Melissa and Victor’s daughter) to the lineup in order to take the field. She did a fantastic job in her first time as a Zeppelin. Raven hit two solid shots to the shortstop and the second baseman at her two at-bats, and was barely thrown out at first while running in sandals. In cleats, she would have embarrassed them both, as daddy Victor Moore made sure to point out. On defense, she played a roving short field and closed the gap up the middle. The “Developers” didn’t even attempt to hit it in her direction.
OCD took an early lead in the top of the first, scoring three runs with some solid at-bats. The Zeppelins then got into a rhythm and kept OCD scoreless in the second. OCD added one more run in the third, and then it became a defensive battle on both sides resulting in another three scoreless innings.
DEFENSIVE HIGHLIGHTS:
Michael Pernici threw a batter out at first base from a line drive in right field (WHOO HOO); Gary Beadle and Matthew Wattigny caught multiple flies in the outfield. Eric Burton, Melissa Moore and Steven Grissom combined for multiple infield outs. Eddie James fired a throw into third to Victor Moore who tagged a runner mistakenly attempting to run home.
OFFENSIVE HIGHLIGHTS:
Melissa, who went 2 for 3, hit a scorcher down the third base line that went out into no-man’s land in left field. Eddie did the same thing down the first base line, going 3 for 3 for the night. Steven also put up a 2 for 3 effort at the plate.
Leu Anne Greco and hubby Cyrus showed up with Mai Tai-injected watermelons for the team. This time they remembered to bring some un-tampered ones so no children would be forced to cry at the injustice of it all. In the top of the fifth inning Coach Linda Regira suggested sharing some with OCD to impair their defense, but the ploy did not work.
Although the Zeppelins couldn’t outscore OCD, the Zeppelins definitely had the best after-party and the doctored watermelons hit the spot. A few Zeppelins were spotted grabbing an extra slice (or 2) for the ride home.
Leu Anne and Cyrus supplied the wacky watermelons, Matthew and Christian assisted with the book, Eddie hauled the equipment in and Christian hauled it out. And an extra special thanks to Eddie James, who took control of the team last week and did an outstanding job both as coach and ace reporter.
On a final note, while at the Sage Summit in D.C. last week, Coach Regira kept hearing whispers of a scandal on the Zeppelin team that she could never get full details on from such a long distance – and unable to get these pertinent facts, she could not expose the culprit(s). All she has been heard saying this week is, “The charges are completely unfounded.”
Next week the Zeppelins take on the Governor’s Office staff from the Capitol, sure to be an exciting match of wits. The game will be at 6:30 P.M. on Wednesday, August 7, at Perkins Road Park (Kenilworth). The Zeppelins hope to see everyone there.
Hits: Eddie (3), Steven (2), Melissa, Victor.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Melissa Moore (Business Incentives), Michael Pernici (Lead Development), Raven Moore (Melissa & Victor’s daughter), Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary), and Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband).
FANS: Leu Anne and Cyrus Greco with an ice chest full of wacky melons and Raven Moore (for a few minutes until being recruited to play).
AAAAHHHHHH………
Mai Tai Melons
8 parts rum (definitely aged amber or dark, half white OK, some spiced if available)
3 parts lime juice
2 parts orange curacao or Triple Sec
1 part orgeat (substitute a tiny bit of almond extract)
1 part (or to taste) simple syrup
Moroccan bitters (optional; or substitute very tiny amount of cardamom/ginger/clove/cinnamon)
Shake well (without ice – needs to be strong & undiluted, remember it will be diluted by the watermelon juice).
Slowly inject into a whole watermelon (with a Cajun Injector, 3 to 6 syringes depending upon size of melon; be prepared to close holes with tape/toothpick to prevent immediate eruptions; don’t worry about leakage) and chill.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Zeppelins Compete Without Coach Against Mighty House Team / The Moore Family and Pennington Lead on Offense
HOUSE (Of Cards) FOLDS AS MIGHTY ZEPPELINS ATTACK
By Eddie James (pinching in as Coach and Blogger)
Wednesday evening the Zeppelins took the field against the House of Representatives. This looked to be the toughest challenge yet this season, as the House finished the 2012 regular season with the best record in the league at 6-1 and averaging just under 10 runs per game.
Deer Antler Velvet Spray Scandal
Coach Linda Regira was absent, but NOT on vacation as she had reported to her team last week. Monday evening the news broke about the suspension of Milwaukee Brewers slugger Ryan Braun by Major League baseball for using performance enhancing drugs. Just hours later, authorities in Coral Gables, Florida detained LED Zeppelins’ Coach Linda Regira at the offices of Biogensis of America. The company’s labs were purported to be the supplier of illegal substances that got Braun his 65 game suspension. The Zeppelins were shocked to learn that Coach Regira had attempted to secure large quantities of deer antler velvet spray. Both Braun and New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez have been rumored to have been using the spray to boost their performance. To the company’s credit, they refused to provide the drugs, despite repeated and fervent pleas from Regira. A Biogenesis official, who asked to not be identified, told reporters: “For God’s sake, her team plays co-ed softball!” It would seem that the coach was quite unnerved about the strength of the House team, and was looking to give the Zeppelins any advantage possible. She was given a one week suspension by the Capitol Complex league, but is eligible to return next week. The team is thus far standing by their coach, but was sadly shocked to learn just how seriously she clearly takes the game. In her absence, Eddie James filled in as interim manager for this week’s game against the House.
1st inning
The first inning was all defense, as neither team was able to produce a base runner.
House 0 Zeps 0
2nd inning
In the top of the second, the House team showed the talent that earned them the league’s best record last year by putting the Zeppelins in a deep hole, scoring 4 runs with several consecutive hits. Undaunted, the scrappy Zeppelins fought back in the bottom of the second, scoring three runs of their own. Gary Beadle led off with a single, and advanced to second on a single by Melissa Moore. They were both driven home on probably the best hit so far this season, a triple by Victor Moore. With two outs, first-game rookie Devin Harrison drove Victor home with an impressive single in his first Zeppelin at bat.
House 4 Zeps 3
3rd inning
The House went 3 up-3 down in the top of the third, but not in the conventional way. A lead-off single was followed by a scorching line drive to right center. Paige Ovens cleverly enticed the House base runners to take extra bases when she appeared to let the ball get well past her. The relay throw went to Chelsea Harris, who threw a bullet to home plate. Seeing the ball waiting for him at home plate, the lead runner returned to third base, but the batter had already rounded seconded and was almost to third base as well. A throw to Eric Burton resulted in the batter being tagged for the first out, and Eric’s laser throw rifled to back to the plate wrapped up a very impressive double play. The third batter flied out to the infield to end the top of the 3rd.
In the bottom half, Christian Pennington doubled with one out. He moved to third base on Eric Burton’s single, and then scored on a double by Eddie James. Eric scored on a single by Paige Ovens, who ended up at second after an error in the field. Melissa Moore then ripped a line drive single to the outfield to drive in Eddie, but Paige was cut down at the plate trying to score.
Zeps 6 House 4
4th inning
With one out in the top of the 4th, the House got a base runner on an infield hit, but he was left stranded after groundouts by the next two hitters. The Zeps continued to pour on the offense in the bottom of the 4th with 5 more runs. Victor Moore led off with a single, and went to second on a fielder’s choice by Leigh Ann Burton. Russell Richardson then drove Victor home with a long double to the warning track in left center, a beautiful shot which he appeared to admire at the plate for quite a few seconds. He moved to third on Devin’s second single of the game, and was then driven home on a single by Chelsea. Matt Wattingy then hit a triple, sending home both Devin and Paige Ovens who had come in to run for Chelsea. Note: Chelsea was a very gutsy trooper, as she was pretty sick all day, but still answered the bell—and had to play the entire game as she was the required 4th Zeppelin lady on Wednesday’s roster. Christian Pennington then continued his best offensive game of the season, with a single that scored Matt, but was left stranded on base when the next two batters both failed to reach base.
Zeps 11 House 4
5th inning
Victor Moore came in to pitch the 5th and kept the House from scoring any runs. In the bottom of the 5th, LED continued to pour it on with 3 more runs. Paige led off with a single, but was out at second on a fielder’s choice by Gary. Melissa singled, and both Gary and Melissa then went home on Victor’s double, his third hit of the game. A grounder by Leigh Ann scored Victor, but she was cut down at first for the second out. Russell singled, but was left stranded when the next batter lined out to end the inning.
Zeps 14 House 4
6th inning
With a ten run lead, the first in their history, things were looking good for the Zeppelins. However, the question remained of how well they could handle such success, uncharted territory for LED softball . Eddie returned to pitch the 6th, but it was evident he was not doping or using deer antler velvet. The first two batters singled. The next batter grounded to Chelsea, who made a very heady choice to tag the runner moving over from first. With runners on first and third and only one out, the next hitter singled to load the bases. Things seemed reasonably in hand when the next weakly punched the ball just over the infield. On the next pitch to the plate, the Zeppelins’ defense melted on countless throwing errors by multiple players. When the dust settled, all three runners scored, as did the batter (Eddie claims to have blacked out during the play, which is plausible had one seen the throw he made during the carnage).
The horror of that error filled grand slam by the House by the Zeppelin defense carried over to the turn at the plate. The first two hitters made outs, but Christian Pennington continued his torrid pace with his third hit of the game, only to be left stranded as the next batter flied out.
Zeps 14 House 8
7th inning
Eddie took the hill again in the top of the seventh. A victory over the mighty House team was just three outs away, with the Zeps holding a comfortable 6-run lead. The House team again showed they don’t have any quit in them. They proceeded to send hitter after hitter to the plate. One run scored, then two more, then another, and the Zeppelin lead was down to 2 runs. Some solid defense by Melissa Moore helped keep the score in check at that point. So, with runners on first and third, and the go-ahead run at the plate with two outs, Eddie finally coaxed the House batter at the plate into a pop-up, and a historic win was in the books.
Records:
The third victory matches the cumulative total of wins in the entire history of the team, and they currently hold a 3-2 record in games played on the field.
The Zeppelins have now scored 32 runs this season in 5 games, already smashing the previous best of 23 in 2012, and still with 3 games to play. Twice this season the Zeps have scored 10 runs or more.
Victor Moore had the most productive offensive game in the history of the Zeppelins: He not only played 5 different positions on defense, he also went 3 for 3 at the plate with 3 RBI’s, and scored all three times. He missed hitting for the cycle by only one at-bat, needing only a home run to go along with a single, double, and a triple.
His wife, Melissa, nearly matched him, going 3 for 3 herself, with an RBI and two runs scored.
Christian Pennington also went 3 for 3, with an RBI and a run.
Unfortunately, Coach Regira’s pursuit of deer antler spray cast suspicion on the unprecedented batting performances by Christian Pennington and Victor Moore, and both were required to provide postgame urine samples. Fortunately, both players tested clean!
Hits: Eric, Eddie, Paige, Gary (2), Melissa (3), Victor (3), Russell (2), Devin (2), Chelsea, Matt, and Christian (3)
Doubles: Victor, Russell, Devin, Christian and Eddie
Triples: Victor and Matt
RBI’s: Victor (3), Russell (2), Matt (2), Christian, Chelsea, Devin, Leigh Ann, Melissa, Paige, and Eddie.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Gary Beadle (IT), Melissa Moore (Business Incentives), Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Russell Richardson (Business Development), Devin Harrison (BERG), Chelsea Harris (Communications), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), and Christian Pennington (Business Incentives).
FANS: John Voorhorst (International), Mills Richardson (Russell’s son) and Raven Moore (Victor and Melissa’s daughter).
By Eddie James (pinching in as Coach and Blogger)
Wednesday evening the Zeppelins took the field against the House of Representatives. This looked to be the toughest challenge yet this season, as the House finished the 2012 regular season with the best record in the league at 6-1 and averaging just under 10 runs per game.
Deer Antler Velvet Spray Scandal
Coach Linda Regira was absent, but NOT on vacation as she had reported to her team last week. Monday evening the news broke about the suspension of Milwaukee Brewers slugger Ryan Braun by Major League baseball for using performance enhancing drugs. Just hours later, authorities in Coral Gables, Florida detained LED Zeppelins’ Coach Linda Regira at the offices of Biogensis of America. The company’s labs were purported to be the supplier of illegal substances that got Braun his 65 game suspension. The Zeppelins were shocked to learn that Coach Regira had attempted to secure large quantities of deer antler velvet spray. Both Braun and New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez have been rumored to have been using the spray to boost their performance. To the company’s credit, they refused to provide the drugs, despite repeated and fervent pleas from Regira. A Biogenesis official, who asked to not be identified, told reporters: “For God’s sake, her team plays co-ed softball!” It would seem that the coach was quite unnerved about the strength of the House team, and was looking to give the Zeppelins any advantage possible. She was given a one week suspension by the Capitol Complex league, but is eligible to return next week. The team is thus far standing by their coach, but was sadly shocked to learn just how seriously she clearly takes the game. In her absence, Eddie James filled in as interim manager for this week’s game against the House.
1st inning
The first inning was all defense, as neither team was able to produce a base runner.
House 0 Zeps 0
2nd inning
In the top of the second, the House team showed the talent that earned them the league’s best record last year by putting the Zeppelins in a deep hole, scoring 4 runs with several consecutive hits. Undaunted, the scrappy Zeppelins fought back in the bottom of the second, scoring three runs of their own. Gary Beadle led off with a single, and advanced to second on a single by Melissa Moore. They were both driven home on probably the best hit so far this season, a triple by Victor Moore. With two outs, first-game rookie Devin Harrison drove Victor home with an impressive single in his first Zeppelin at bat.
House 4 Zeps 3
3rd inning
The House went 3 up-3 down in the top of the third, but not in the conventional way. A lead-off single was followed by a scorching line drive to right center. Paige Ovens cleverly enticed the House base runners to take extra bases when she appeared to let the ball get well past her. The relay throw went to Chelsea Harris, who threw a bullet to home plate. Seeing the ball waiting for him at home plate, the lead runner returned to third base, but the batter had already rounded seconded and was almost to third base as well. A throw to Eric Burton resulted in the batter being tagged for the first out, and Eric’s laser throw rifled to back to the plate wrapped up a very impressive double play. The third batter flied out to the infield to end the top of the 3rd.
In the bottom half, Christian Pennington doubled with one out. He moved to third base on Eric Burton’s single, and then scored on a double by Eddie James. Eric scored on a single by Paige Ovens, who ended up at second after an error in the field. Melissa Moore then ripped a line drive single to the outfield to drive in Eddie, but Paige was cut down at the plate trying to score.
Zeps 6 House 4
4th inning
With one out in the top of the 4th, the House got a base runner on an infield hit, but he was left stranded after groundouts by the next two hitters. The Zeps continued to pour on the offense in the bottom of the 4th with 5 more runs. Victor Moore led off with a single, and went to second on a fielder’s choice by Leigh Ann Burton. Russell Richardson then drove Victor home with a long double to the warning track in left center, a beautiful shot which he appeared to admire at the plate for quite a few seconds. He moved to third on Devin’s second single of the game, and was then driven home on a single by Chelsea. Matt Wattingy then hit a triple, sending home both Devin and Paige Ovens who had come in to run for Chelsea. Note: Chelsea was a very gutsy trooper, as she was pretty sick all day, but still answered the bell—and had to play the entire game as she was the required 4th Zeppelin lady on Wednesday’s roster. Christian Pennington then continued his best offensive game of the season, with a single that scored Matt, but was left stranded on base when the next two batters both failed to reach base.
Zeps 11 House 4
5th inning
Victor Moore came in to pitch the 5th and kept the House from scoring any runs. In the bottom of the 5th, LED continued to pour it on with 3 more runs. Paige led off with a single, but was out at second on a fielder’s choice by Gary. Melissa singled, and both Gary and Melissa then went home on Victor’s double, his third hit of the game. A grounder by Leigh Ann scored Victor, but she was cut down at first for the second out. Russell singled, but was left stranded when the next batter lined out to end the inning.
Zeps 14 House 4
6th inning
With a ten run lead, the first in their history, things were looking good for the Zeppelins. However, the question remained of how well they could handle such success, uncharted territory for LED softball . Eddie returned to pitch the 6th, but it was evident he was not doping or using deer antler velvet. The first two batters singled. The next batter grounded to Chelsea, who made a very heady choice to tag the runner moving over from first. With runners on first and third and only one out, the next hitter singled to load the bases. Things seemed reasonably in hand when the next weakly punched the ball just over the infield. On the next pitch to the plate, the Zeppelins’ defense melted on countless throwing errors by multiple players. When the dust settled, all three runners scored, as did the batter (Eddie claims to have blacked out during the play, which is plausible had one seen the throw he made during the carnage).
The horror of that error filled grand slam by the House by the Zeppelin defense carried over to the turn at the plate. The first two hitters made outs, but Christian Pennington continued his torrid pace with his third hit of the game, only to be left stranded as the next batter flied out.
Zeps 14 House 8
7th inning
Eddie took the hill again in the top of the seventh. A victory over the mighty House team was just three outs away, with the Zeps holding a comfortable 6-run lead. The House team again showed they don’t have any quit in them. They proceeded to send hitter after hitter to the plate. One run scored, then two more, then another, and the Zeppelin lead was down to 2 runs. Some solid defense by Melissa Moore helped keep the score in check at that point. So, with runners on first and third, and the go-ahead run at the plate with two outs, Eddie finally coaxed the House batter at the plate into a pop-up, and a historic win was in the books.
Records:
The third victory matches the cumulative total of wins in the entire history of the team, and they currently hold a 3-2 record in games played on the field.
The Zeppelins have now scored 32 runs this season in 5 games, already smashing the previous best of 23 in 2012, and still with 3 games to play. Twice this season the Zeps have scored 10 runs or more.
Victor Moore had the most productive offensive game in the history of the Zeppelins: He not only played 5 different positions on defense, he also went 3 for 3 at the plate with 3 RBI’s, and scored all three times. He missed hitting for the cycle by only one at-bat, needing only a home run to go along with a single, double, and a triple.
His wife, Melissa, nearly matched him, going 3 for 3 herself, with an RBI and two runs scored.
Christian Pennington also went 3 for 3, with an RBI and a run.
Unfortunately, Coach Regira’s pursuit of deer antler spray cast suspicion on the unprecedented batting performances by Christian Pennington and Victor Moore, and both were required to provide postgame urine samples. Fortunately, both players tested clean!
Hits: Eric, Eddie, Paige, Gary (2), Melissa (3), Victor (3), Russell (2), Devin (2), Chelsea, Matt, and Christian (3)
Doubles: Victor, Russell, Devin, Christian and Eddie
Triples: Victor and Matt
RBI’s: Victor (3), Russell (2), Matt (2), Christian, Chelsea, Devin, Leigh Ann, Melissa, Paige, and Eddie.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Gary Beadle (IT), Melissa Moore (Business Incentives), Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Russell Richardson (Business Development), Devin Harrison (BERG), Chelsea Harris (Communications), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), and Christian Pennington (Business Incentives).
FANS: John Voorhorst (International), Mills Richardson (Russell’s son) and Raven Moore (Victor and Melissa’s daughter).
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Zeppelins Struggle in the Mud Against the DOTD Intermodal Team
They say that bad playing conditions favor the weaker team, and it may have rung true as the Zeppelins lost some spring in their steps last night against the DOTD Intermodal team, playing on a field in terrible shape.
There was standing water at home plate, just beyond first base and down the third base line. Eddie James tried to drain the water from home plate with paper cups, but the plate had to be relocated anyway for the safety of the batters. Many Zeppelin batters were just barely put out having to tiptoe down the baselines trying to avoid the mud and standing water, in what otherwise would have been hits. The conditions impacted DOTD as well, but they managed to put more hits into the outfield which gave them more time to get to first base.
Both teams put up hits early in the game. LED batted at the top of the first and scored two runs quickly on a single by Eric Burton, a triple by Eddie which scored Eric from first, and a sacrifice fly to left center by Russell Richardson, which scored Eddie from third. Gary Beadle then hit a line drive to right center, followed by singles from Chelsea Harris and Paige Ovens to load the bases, but the Zeppelins couldn’t bring in the ducks on the pond.
Intermodal struck back with hits into the gaps at the bottom of the first, driving in four runs to take the lead. Defense on both sides eventually adjusted to the playing conditions and runs in the remaining innings were harder to come by.
The DOTD team had an outstanding female shortstop, certainly a recent strategic hire, who turned in a nearly flawless performance both on the field and at the plate. The Zeppelins kept hitting to her and to her second base teammate who rarely let anything get through the infield.
The Zeppelins fielded 10 players and tallied 12 hits while Intermodal fielded 12 players, tallying 13 hits. In the seventh inning Eric put his rally cap on and went out to coach first base. He then proceeded to call his wife out at first (who was clearly safe) thereby dashing some of the come-back spirit. There followed some talk about “the couch” but it wasn’t clear exactly what they were discussing.
The Zeppelins are set to face off against the powerful House of Representatives next week, on Wednesday, July 24, at 6:00 p.m. at Perkins Road Park (Kenilworth). Eddie will be leading the team so please come out and support the Zeppelins.
Hits: Eric (2), Eddie (3 for 3 with a triple), Russell, Gary, Chelsea, Paige, Leigh Ann, Katie and Christian.
RBI’s: Eddie and Russell.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communications), Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jason El Koubi (Assistant Secretary), Katie Richardson (Russell’s wife), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Russell Richardson (Business Development).
FANS: Mills Richardson (Russell’s son) and Susan Bigner (Business Incentives).
There was standing water at home plate, just beyond first base and down the third base line. Eddie James tried to drain the water from home plate with paper cups, but the plate had to be relocated anyway for the safety of the batters. Many Zeppelin batters were just barely put out having to tiptoe down the baselines trying to avoid the mud and standing water, in what otherwise would have been hits. The conditions impacted DOTD as well, but they managed to put more hits into the outfield which gave them more time to get to first base.
Both teams put up hits early in the game. LED batted at the top of the first and scored two runs quickly on a single by Eric Burton, a triple by Eddie which scored Eric from first, and a sacrifice fly to left center by Russell Richardson, which scored Eddie from third. Gary Beadle then hit a line drive to right center, followed by singles from Chelsea Harris and Paige Ovens to load the bases, but the Zeppelins couldn’t bring in the ducks on the pond.
Intermodal struck back with hits into the gaps at the bottom of the first, driving in four runs to take the lead. Defense on both sides eventually adjusted to the playing conditions and runs in the remaining innings were harder to come by.
The DOTD team had an outstanding female shortstop, certainly a recent strategic hire, who turned in a nearly flawless performance both on the field and at the plate. The Zeppelins kept hitting to her and to her second base teammate who rarely let anything get through the infield.
The Zeppelins fielded 10 players and tallied 12 hits while Intermodal fielded 12 players, tallying 13 hits. In the seventh inning Eric put his rally cap on and went out to coach first base. He then proceeded to call his wife out at first (who was clearly safe) thereby dashing some of the come-back spirit. There followed some talk about “the couch” but it wasn’t clear exactly what they were discussing.
The Zeppelins are set to face off against the powerful House of Representatives next week, on Wednesday, July 24, at 6:00 p.m. at Perkins Road Park (Kenilworth). Eddie will be leading the team so please come out and support the Zeppelins.
Hits: Eric (2), Eddie (3 for 3 with a triple), Russell, Gary, Chelsea, Paige, Leigh Ann, Katie and Christian.
RBI’s: Eddie and Russell.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communications), Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jason El Koubi (Assistant Secretary), Katie Richardson (Russell’s wife), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Russell Richardson (Business Development).
FANS: Mills Richardson (Russell’s son) and Susan Bigner (Business Incentives).
Thursday, July 11, 2013
James and Grissom Team Up to Push the Zeppelin's Over the Regulators in Last Minute Effort
How do you know the winners? Winners always want the ball when the game is on the line.
It’s what all kids dream about when they pretend they are in the clutch spot with the game on the line. With the score tied in the bottom of the last inning, one down and a runner in scoring position, you’ve got a chance to win it all if you can just hit the long ball. And that’s exactly what Eddie James did – he hit one into deep right field, allowing Steven Grissom to tag up at second and dash across the plate without stopping at third. That play ended the game with LED up by a score of 2-1.
Defense was tough on both sides as the 3-1 Zeppelins faced off with the Department of Insurance “Regulators” last night at Perkins Road Park. Many hitters felt robbed by outstanding defensive plays by both teams. LED notched 13 hits and the Regulators put up 8, but the hits were scattered and didn’t result in many runs despite the fantastic cheering of Kate Clapinski (Danielle’s daughter, age 3). Kate was so precious and her cheering was so infectious that everyone on both teams chimed in with her chanting “go mommy go.”
Tied at 0-0 in the bottom of the third, the Zeppelins manufactured a run on a double by Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband) followed by a shot up the middle by Danielle, who spent the rest of the game basking in the glory of her first career RBI.
Defense dominated again until the top of the final inning when a Regulator hit one over the outfield to coax a run and tie the game at one run apiece. Eddie just missed out again on pitching a shutout.
The bottom of the seventh was the Zeppelin’s last chance to avoid overtime and claim a victory, and they dug down deep to make it happen. With the game on the line Coach Linda Regira called for hits from everybody in the lineup, and the Zeppelins rose to the challenge. Matthew Wattigny started the late-game hitting streak when he legged out a single to the infield, and Steven added a second hit down the right side of the field. Jayson Newell (who went 3 for 3 again this week!) tapped out a fly into no-man’s land that wasn’t caught, but allowed the Regulators to put Matthew out at third. But it was Jayson’s hit that left Steven in scoring position with Eddie up to bat. Eddie knocked out his long ball to score Steven, notching the win in the record books and setting a Zeppelin record of back-to-back victories.
One newcomer to the team this season, Paige Ovens, turned in a respectable performance which proved that it wasn’t her first round on a softball field. In fact, when she was being interviewed last month, Eddie reported that there was a potential Zeppelin in the conference room. She was robbed twice at the plate when she hit two beautiful line drives up the middle that were both snagged on the run by a Regulator speedster in center field.
Chelsea Harris was back in action this week and she played a tough second base (with her catcher’s mitt) and caught a pop foul in her turn at catcher. Eric Burton turned in several superb plays at shortstop, robbing their batters as soundly as they robbed ours, and prompting one Regulator to say, “No way can we let this guy get another hit too,” as he strode to the plate.
Personal coach Andrew Clapinski (Danielle’s son, age 6) made sure mom heeded his sage advice after she swung at a high pitch, “mom, if you don’t like it, don’t swing at it.” Where in the world did he get that from?
Raven Moore (Melissa’s daughter) was in the dugout and looking very grown up and beautiful, but not actively cheering. She IS older this season….HELLO. But she made sure mom was positioned just right at third base, sending hand signals to request a move up or back or to the side.
Speaking of signals, Victor assisted in the coaching role at third and his signals to the batters and runners were straight out of the textbook, only…….none of the Zeppelins knew what the heck those signals meant. Maybe we should issue a playbook?
On a final note that proves what a small world it truly is, when we arrived at the field we had a pretty bad SINKHOLE on the left side of the plate. New BREC groundskeeper Daniel Stoute helped out tremendously by shoveling fresh dirt for the game. He is the brother in law of Michele Stoute in LED Fiscal and the brother in law of Rhett Jeansonne, an Insurance agent killed in the line of duty in 2011. The team carries his name on their jerseys as a special tribute…truly a class act.
The Zeppelins are set to face off against DOTD Intermodal next week, date/time/location TBD. Please come out and support the Zeppelins.
Hits: Jayson (3), Eddie, Russell, Eric, Melissa (2), Victor (2 doubles), Danielle, Matt and Steven
RBI’s: Danielle and Eddie.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communications), Danielle Clapinski (Legal), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Melissa Moore (Business Incentives), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Russell Richardson (Business Development), Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary), Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband).
FANS: Raven Moore, Kate and Andrew Clapinski, and Terry and Nancy Dupuy (Leigh Ann Burton’s parents).
Dennis Barbier supplied the water and Matthew and Jayson assisted with keeping the book.
It’s what all kids dream about when they pretend they are in the clutch spot with the game on the line. With the score tied in the bottom of the last inning, one down and a runner in scoring position, you’ve got a chance to win it all if you can just hit the long ball. And that’s exactly what Eddie James did – he hit one into deep right field, allowing Steven Grissom to tag up at second and dash across the plate without stopping at third. That play ended the game with LED up by a score of 2-1.
Defense was tough on both sides as the 3-1 Zeppelins faced off with the Department of Insurance “Regulators” last night at Perkins Road Park. Many hitters felt robbed by outstanding defensive plays by both teams. LED notched 13 hits and the Regulators put up 8, but the hits were scattered and didn’t result in many runs despite the fantastic cheering of Kate Clapinski (Danielle’s daughter, age 3). Kate was so precious and her cheering was so infectious that everyone on both teams chimed in with her chanting “go mommy go.”
Tied at 0-0 in the bottom of the third, the Zeppelins manufactured a run on a double by Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband) followed by a shot up the middle by Danielle, who spent the rest of the game basking in the glory of her first career RBI.
Defense dominated again until the top of the final inning when a Regulator hit one over the outfield to coax a run and tie the game at one run apiece. Eddie just missed out again on pitching a shutout.
The bottom of the seventh was the Zeppelin’s last chance to avoid overtime and claim a victory, and they dug down deep to make it happen. With the game on the line Coach Linda Regira called for hits from everybody in the lineup, and the Zeppelins rose to the challenge. Matthew Wattigny started the late-game hitting streak when he legged out a single to the infield, and Steven added a second hit down the right side of the field. Jayson Newell (who went 3 for 3 again this week!) tapped out a fly into no-man’s land that wasn’t caught, but allowed the Regulators to put Matthew out at third. But it was Jayson’s hit that left Steven in scoring position with Eddie up to bat. Eddie knocked out his long ball to score Steven, notching the win in the record books and setting a Zeppelin record of back-to-back victories.
One newcomer to the team this season, Paige Ovens, turned in a respectable performance which proved that it wasn’t her first round on a softball field. In fact, when she was being interviewed last month, Eddie reported that there was a potential Zeppelin in the conference room. She was robbed twice at the plate when she hit two beautiful line drives up the middle that were both snagged on the run by a Regulator speedster in center field.
Chelsea Harris was back in action this week and she played a tough second base (with her catcher’s mitt) and caught a pop foul in her turn at catcher. Eric Burton turned in several superb plays at shortstop, robbing their batters as soundly as they robbed ours, and prompting one Regulator to say, “No way can we let this guy get another hit too,” as he strode to the plate.
Personal coach Andrew Clapinski (Danielle’s son, age 6) made sure mom heeded his sage advice after she swung at a high pitch, “mom, if you don’t like it, don’t swing at it.” Where in the world did he get that from?
Raven Moore (Melissa’s daughter) was in the dugout and looking very grown up and beautiful, but not actively cheering. She IS older this season….HELLO. But she made sure mom was positioned just right at third base, sending hand signals to request a move up or back or to the side.
Speaking of signals, Victor assisted in the coaching role at third and his signals to the batters and runners were straight out of the textbook, only…….none of the Zeppelins knew what the heck those signals meant. Maybe we should issue a playbook?
On a final note that proves what a small world it truly is, when we arrived at the field we had a pretty bad SINKHOLE on the left side of the plate. New BREC groundskeeper Daniel Stoute helped out tremendously by shoveling fresh dirt for the game. He is the brother in law of Michele Stoute in LED Fiscal and the brother in law of Rhett Jeansonne, an Insurance agent killed in the line of duty in 2011. The team carries his name on their jerseys as a special tribute…truly a class act.
The Zeppelins are set to face off against DOTD Intermodal next week, date/time/location TBD. Please come out and support the Zeppelins.
Hits: Jayson (3), Eddie, Russell, Eric, Melissa (2), Victor (2 doubles), Danielle, Matt and Steven
RBI’s: Danielle and Eddie.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Chelsea Harris (Communications), Danielle Clapinski (Legal), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Gary Beadle (IT), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Melissa Moore (Business Incentives), Paige Ovens (Business Development), Russell Richardson (Business Development), Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary), Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband).
FANS: Raven Moore, Kate and Andrew Clapinski, and Terry and Nancy Dupuy (Leigh Ann Burton’s parents).
Dennis Barbier supplied the water and Matthew and Jayson assisted with keeping the book.
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
GOHSEP #2 was Not Prepared for the Zeppelin Freight Train
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
After a late start due to field shortages, the Zeppelins mowed down the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness by a score of 10 to 1 at Sharp Road field last night in six innings.
The Zeppelin defense was superb, allowing only one run and only five batters to reach base safely. The pitching of Eddie James had a LOT to do with that, as he tossed knuckle balls and pitches just outside the sweet spot which they couldn’t lay off of, and there might have even been a curve ball or two in the mix.
It was truly a team effort and great defensive plays were made all around. The defensive highlight play of the game was turned in by Russell Richardson who came out of nowhere on the run to snag a hard line drive up the middle, robbing GOHSEP of what otherwise would have been a great hit. And the toughest hard-knocks play was on a solid hit to right field by one of the GOHSEP women which Victor scooped up and barreled into first base for the out (poor girl).
Obviously offensive production was superb as well, with LED generating 22 hits in just six innings. The RBIs were everywhere and the spouses turned in another great performance. Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife) tallied 3 RBIs and Katie Richardson (Russell’s wife) added another one, while Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband) went 2 for 3 at the plate.
Jayson Newell and Eddie both went 3 for 4 and six players turned in 2 for 3 efforts at bat. As a team, the Zeppelins produced a .595 batting average while keeping GOHSEP down to a .217 clip. That is a massive feat in any league. The Zeppelins scored five in the 2nd, one in the 3rd, three in the 4th, and one in the 6th before GOHSEP finally called “uncle.”
There was only one recorded injury for LED when Jayson strained a thigh muscle running the bases. No problem though, because his wife pinch ran for him just fine. And in case anyone was wondering, Coach Linda Regira did not fall down once.
The only thing that could have made the victory better would have been the sweet taste of Corona Punch at the victory party.
The Zeppelins will face the Louisiana Department of Insurance next week (place and time TBD), so please plan on coming out to support the team.
Hits: Jayson (3), Eddie (3), Eric (2), Melissa (2), Victor (2), Linda (2), Leigh Ann (2), Russell (2), Matthew (2), and Steven (2).
RBI’s: Leigh Ann (3), Eddie (2), Jayson, Eric, Melissa, Katie and Russell.
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Katie Richardson (Russell’s wife), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Melissa Moore (Business Incentives), Russell Richardson (Business Development), Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary), Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband).
FANS: Mills Richardson and Raven Moore.
The Richardsons supplied the water and Jayson and Matt assisted with keeping the book.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Zeppelins Give Great Performance in Season Opener against DOTD-Design
Eddie James brought his unflinching enthusiasm and amazing skills to the field again this season as the Zeppelins faced off with the DOTD-Design team. LED fielded 12 players, racked up 11 hits, and scored four runs against Design. Along the way, several Zeppelins stood out for their offensive and defensive performances, including Eddie who arrived late after a conference call and took command of the field, personally putting out the first three batters he faced.
Eric Burton (Business Incentives) played a great shortstop and Russell Richardson (Business Development) made several great catches in the outfield. Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband) and Eddie added superb defensive plays to the mix. Outstanding on offense, Jayson Newell (Business Development) went 3 for 3 with 2 RBI’s and Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife) added two RBI’s for the Zeppelins. She has been officially notified that she is now a permanent member of the team.
Design struck first with three runs in the top of the first inning. LED was a little rusty and needed an inning to sweep out the cobwebs, but it didn’t take long for the Zeppelins to strike back and even the score.
In the bottom of the third, Coach Linda Regira (Policy & Planning) started off with a single down the third base line. Eddie made Linda look great, pinch-running his way around the bases to become the first Zeppelin to cross the plate. Melissa Moore (Business Incentives) added a single which moved Eddie to third with a textbook slide. Jayson then added a two-RBI single to plate Eddie and Melissa. Leigh Ann then provided a sacrifice shot to score Jayson. The inning concluded with the score tied at 3 to 3.
In the bottom of the third, Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary) walked up to the field just in time to hear his name called as the next batter in the lineup. With no warm-up, he knocked a beautiful single up the middle. Eric followed up with another single to move Steven into scoring position and it looked like the Zeppelins were going to add more runs when the Design center fielder made a spectacular play to rob Victor of a great hit, ending the inning with no runs scored.
Linda kept her title alive by taking another spill on the field. THIS time, it was self defense. Taking a rotation at catcher, Linda had to quickly duck a hard foul-tip heading straight at her nose. The batter graciously assisted Linda back to her feet. Eddie was heard saying “her head was there one second then it was gone….like a turtle.”
LED did not ultimately walk away victorious, but a fun time was had by all. And just for future reference, we shouldn’t be scheduling after-hours meetings and conference calls on game days!
The Zeppelins will face the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) team #2 at 6:00 on Tuesday, July 2 at Independence Park.
Singles: Eric, Dennis, Linda (2), Melissa, Jayson (3), Matthew, Eddie, Steven.
RBI’s: Jayson (2), Leigh Ann (2)
Many thanks to all who STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE for LED.
PLAYERS: Christian Pennington (Business Incentives), Dennis Barbier (Equipment Manager), Eddie James (Business Development), Eric Burton (Business Incentives), Jayson Newell (Business Development), Leigh Ann Burton (Eric’s wife), Linda Regira (Policy & Planning), Matthew Wattigny (FastStart), Melissa Moore (Business Incentives), Russell Richardson (Business Development), Steven Grissom (Deputy Secretary), Victor Moore (Melissa’s husband).
FANS: Jayson’s wife Beth and Russell’s son Mills and daughter Libby.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
LED Softball Holds Annual Award Ceremony and Recruitment Event
The Zeppelins met today for a pizza lunch and to receive awards for the awesome plays of the 2012 season. The event was also a recruiting effort, and there were several new recruits in attendance which bodes well for the upcoming 2013 season. The new season is expected to kick off in early June (after the Legislature adjourns on June 6th). Pre-season practice is set to begin during the last week in May and an invite will be sent out soon.
The team, inspired by Secretary Moret and LED Business Plan item #11, showed vast improvement over the 2011 season in offensive production. Seventeen different players notched five or more hits, and nineteen different players drove in RBIs. The team also made it to the playoffs but were defeated in the first round. The new goal for the team in 2013 is to make it back to the playoffs and win a playoff game.
Every player from the 2012 season received an engraved trophy; stop by a Zeppelin’s office to check it out. In addition to the trophies there were certificates presented to players in many different categories. There were standard award categories for things like “Best Batting Average” and “Most Team Hits,” but there were also some categories not found in any other league such as “Softball Fashionista” and “Choppin’ Down Trees.”
This year there were awards for four- and five-tool players (hitting, running, catching, throwing, pitching) and the winners made a huge impact on the team’s performance. Four-tool players were Chelsea Harris, Melissa Moore and Jimmy Williams. Five-tool players were Eddie James and Victor Moore. Melissa and Victor also went home with the coveted “High Impact Couple” award. Several players earned multiple awards and some fans were winners too. The full list of awards is shown below.
PLAYER AWARDS
Alicia Ardoin
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Going Injury Free
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Anne Villa
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Starting The Most Hitting Streaks
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Keeping The Team Hydrated
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Chandra Williams
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Softball Fashionista
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Fetching, Not Catching
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Chelsea Harris
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Best Batting Average - Female / Best (and only) Team Slide
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Most Catches At Second Base With A Catcher's Mitt
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Danielle Clapinski
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Most Catches In The Outfield - Female
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Eddie James
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Best Batting Average / Most Total Hits
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Pitcher Extraordinaire / Best Roll-N-Run Plays
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Fallon Blank
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Cutest Single Game Player (TIE)
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Gary Beadle
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Most Assists In The Outfield
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WILD THING
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Jacob McConnell
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Best Catch On Top Of The Fence
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Living The Dream For The Team
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James Caldwell
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Having The Off-Hand Be The Best Hand For Batting
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Lugging The Most Stuff To The Field
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Jayson Newell
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Most Flies Caught In The Outfield In The Fewest Games
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Tracking The Zeppelins On The Polina Rankings
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Jessica McConnell
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Getting Recruited From The Stands
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Jimmy Williams
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Team Speedster (Faster Than Jaubert)
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Most Trash Talk While Under The Influence of Corona Punch And Rice Krispy Treats
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Joan Young
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Cutest Single Game Player (TIE)
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Johan Salen
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Johan Gets On Base, A Lot
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I'm Great This Year But I Was Great Last Year Too
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Katherine St. Onge
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Best Team Baker
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Kathy Blankenship
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Most Spills On The Field In A Single Game (3)
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Larry Collins
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Most Cheered-For Player EVER
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(Giving Caroline Something To Cheer About)
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Linda Regira
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Most RBIs
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Most Spills On The Field
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Matthew Wattigny
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Most Improved Hitter Over Last Year - Male
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Most Pre-Game Warm-Up (Running A Mile Before The Game)
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Melissa Moore
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Most Total Hits - Female
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Most Put-Outs From A Prone Position
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Michael Pernici
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Best Relay Play Of The Season
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Rick Ward
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Taking One For The Team
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Most Put-Outs From Different Positions (Shortstop, First Base, Outfield)
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Russell Richardson
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His Best Performance In A Single Game - His Only Game
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Sarah Vanden Broek
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Most Improved Hitter Over Last Year - Female
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Fastest & Most Graceful Runner
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Steven Grissom
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Most Scoops At First Base
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Victor Moore
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Playing The Most Different Positions
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Choppin' Down Trees
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FAN AWARDS
Stephen Moret
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Inspiring The Team
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Business Plan Item #11 (Moneyball)
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Sandra Granata
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Supplying Corona Punch To The Team
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Brenda Guess
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Supplying Beer To The Team
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Raven Moore
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Best Cheerleader In The League (TIE)
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Caroline Collins
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Best Cheerleader In The League (TIE)
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Mills Richardson
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Keeping The Players Safe In The Dugout
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Ant Killer!
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