STOP. Prez Sez. State Tournament Update. Don t throw me away! Keep me for future reference. I am full of useful information.

Transcription

1 Missouri State Horseshoe Pitching News NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Volume 16, Issue 2 An Award-Winning Publication June 2012 H O R S E S H O E P I T C H E R S Prez Sez by Sharon Taylor, President MOHPA Spring has made its way into Missouri long before it should. By now, some of the summer leagues are gearing up. Have you signed up yet for a league? Better yet, have you gotten at least one new member? If each club would sign up one new member this year, we would very likely pass Minnesota. What about an incentive for a new pitcher to join? Your club could offer to pay the dues for one year. On page 15 of this issue of Shoe Biz is a fl yer of one club s attempt to introduce and recruit new pitchers. If that is what it takes, do it. Not only is World Tournament time creeping up but the state tournament is just around the corner. The World Tournament is in Knoxville, Tennessee; what a fun city. Hopefully by now you have made your motel or camping reservations. Entry fees were due by May 17. Let s make this the best year for the turnout from Missouri. The State tournament is again being held at Lebanon. What a great facility. We are looking forward to a bigger tournament that last year. If you missed it in 2011, don t miss it in I know the event coordinators are working hard. I m looking forward to seeing everyone over the Labor Day weekend at Lebanon. Just to update everyone on our effort to bring a World Tournament to Branson, after our meetings with the convention bureau, it seems that this time the fi nancial element was not a problem, timing was. Since World Tournament time is during Branson s peak season, they asked that NHPA change their World Tournament dates to before May 31 or after August 31 (for that year). Needless to say, that did not work for the NHPA. It looks like Branson is not a choice. We will continue to look for a venue to bring a World Tournament to Missouri. We are always open to ideas. Hope to see everyone at either the World Tournament or the State Tournament. Both would be even better. STOP Don t throw me away! Keep me for future reference. I am full of useful information. State Tournament Update by Jim Bainter Would you believe there are less than four months until the 2012 Missouri State Horseshoe Championships (Aug. 31 to Sept. 3)? Your host crew is working hard to make sure it s even better than last year. Those of you who missed out last year need to make your plans now to join the pitchers who will attend and enjoy the great venue in Lebanon, MO. In the last issue of Shoe Biz, I identified many of the improvements made to make your participation even more enjoyable for the four days of the tournament. The host hotels remain the same Best Western Wyota Inn ( ) and the Super 8 ( ) with the same great rates of $58/ single and $65/double. The Happy Trails RV Park at I-44 Exit 123 offers tent sites, cabins, rental RVs, and the full array of RV amenities ( ). These facilities were great last year and are sure to be even better the second time around. We are selling ads for the program booklet to help defray the expenses of hosting the MOHPA s premier event. Prices are: business card size, $25; quarter-page, $100; half-page, $175. Your support will be greatly appreciated. Please send your ad request with artwork and/or a note with your message to Marshel Keith, 439 Bluff Road, Marshfi eld, MO ( , keith_freda@yahoo.com). Please make checks payable to 2012 State Tournament. The 2012 shirt color will be royal blue. T-shirts ($14) and polo shirts ($20) can be special ordered in advance. You should send your request to me, Jim Bainter, at Sunset Road, Gravois Mills, 65037, or jbainter@charter.net. You can pay at the tournament. I will need the following info: quantity, size, pocket (polo only, $1 extra), correct spelling for your name on the back, the same for a name on the front. Cutoff date for special orders will be August 1. Tees ready for your name will be available for sale at the tournament. Names will be included in the price of the shirt if you special order. Names in Lebanon will be $3. There will be See State Championship Tournament, page 2 1

2 President: Sharon Taylor 5115 Overton Ave., Kansas City, MO Vice President: Debbie Harris 1408 Heather St, Kearney, MO cell Secretary/Treasurer: Vicki Winston Highway D, LaMonte, MO , cell Statistician: Stan Griggs 5629 Sterling, Raytown, MO Regional Director: Donna Bastel 1028 Oak Point Dr., Gravois Mills, MO , cell Missouri State Officers Zone 1 Director: Jim Kinney Jr. PO Box 205, Drexel, MO JKinneyJrUSA@netscape.net Zone 2 Director: Scott Raimer 8690 County Rd. 422, Hannibal, MO cell gbpfan@rallstech.com Zone 3 Director: Bob Bastel 1028 Oak Point Dr., Gravois Mills, MO , cell dbastel@lauriekitchen.net Zone 4 Director: Danny Williams HCR 64 Box 817, Glen Allen, MO , cell nipdpeg2@yahoo.com Hall of Fame Chairperson: Dee McIntire 6802 N Askew, Gladstone, MO dinetamcintire@att.net Junior Director: Melody Williams HCR 64 Box 817, Glen Allen, MO , cell nipdpeg2@yahoo.com Publicity Chairperson: Jim Kinney Jr. PO Box 205, Drexel, MO JKinneyJrUSA@netscape.net Newsletter Editor: Elizabeth Furner Furner Ln., Excelsior Springs, MO four4zero0@gmail.com Shoe Biz Deadlines The magic number is 9 : February 9 May 9 October 9 Furn s Turn by Elizabeth Furner I sit here in my garage and think about what has been happening. Winter forgot to show and spring came in kicking and screaming with storms through some parts of the state. Summer coyly shows its face now and then only for a tease. What does this mean? It means there are no excuses for not being out these past few months and enjoying our sport of horseshoes. Weather has not been a deterrent. I am sure most of you have been to horseshoepitching.com and experienced the new format. Lots of work went into the making of the site and your thoughts and suggestions are respected and expected. Are you going to World Tournament? Be sure to wear your Missouri State Pin, which can be purchased for a couple of bucks from our president. Be sure to purchase your ticket for the World Tournament Experience in This will go a long way in defraying expenses going west. I know most of us have been enjoying the mild weather and that is good. Some of our family and friends have not enjoyed everything about the 2012 year. Persons of whom I have been made aware are Jan Kreienkamp and her health battle, Mick Gillette and Mel Bruemmer had heart issues, Angie DiRaimo and the loss of her sister, there s Nick DiRaimo who lost his brother within three weeks of losing his sister-in-law, and Leroy Dominique of Chillicothe is recovering from knee surgery. I was lucky enough to be available this past month when Gregg Craven directed a Juniors Only tournament that included a non-sanctioned class. This class was comprised of four little ones aged fi ve and six. Each threw 20 shoes from 10 feet. As one of the parents commented when coming to our older end of the courts after the nonsanctioned event, This end is not as high maintenance as that one down there. You know, this is the type of thing that keeps our sport moving. We have no real age restrictions; the body tells us if it s a go or not. There are days when I wish my body would just quit talking and let me get on doing the things I really like to do. Our president talks of what might be done to increase membership and exposure of our sport. Nonsanctioned events may be one of the answers. As my husband calls it, The puppy dog close. Give the potential member a taste of the sport and he just might come back. I think back to the casual conversation I was having with one of my employees just a few years back and how that conversation led to my becoming a part of this fantastic organization. Before I close, I wish to acknowledge the input of those who make this publication possible. Thanks to contributors Rich Altis, Jeanette Claas, Andy Foulds, Jan Kreienkamp, Daphne Happy, Vicki Winston, Sharon Taylor, Sherry Osburn, Donna Bastel, Stan Griggs, Debby Michaud, and the lady living in the garage. World Tournament is next door in Tennessee and State Tournament is just south of Laurie. State Fair is in between. Y all come. State Championship Tournament, from page 1 only a limited number of polos for sale at the tournament, so if you want one, please preorder early. The lady who does the names will only be at the tournament Friday through Sunday. In addition to tees, we will have summer and winter ball caps and towels with the embroidered logo, along with some other specialty items. The 2012 pins are available now. See me before you go to World. Remember, you will be playing in air-conditioned comfort on cushioned Astroturf. No rain, wind, or heat to hinder your pitching. Last year we had 250 participants; let s make it a record 300 for We will be completing our fi nal setup on Thursday, August 30. We had great support from several pitchers last year. Thank you. We would appreciate early arrival assistance again this year. If you have any questions, please contact me (cell ), Marshel Keith (cell ), Jim Caufi eld (cell ), or Ed Eliason (cell ). The city of Lebanon is strongly supporting our efforts and they look forward to hosting this event for the second year. See you in September! 2

3 This & That by Vicki Winston Hello again! Outdoor pitching season is in full swing and this year it could have started many weeks earlier. It s been very strange weather and I have a chrysanthemum plant already in bloom that is not supposed to bloom until late summer or fall. This is the issue of Shoe Biz that contains the entry forms for the Missouri State Fair Tournament in Sedalia and also our Missouri State Championships to be held in Lebanon. If you are entering both events, you may send one check to cover the total amount of all entry fees. However, be sure to notice that the Missouri State Fair deadline is much earlier than our State Championships. If you want to pitch at the State Fair, you will need to observe that deadline. You are getting extra time to enter the State Tournament this year because I may be in Knoxville, TN, when we normally close the entries. There is not yet any banquet information available as of this writing, so you won t be able to send banquet ticket money with your State Tournament entry. You will get a banquet ticket order form when I mail your pitching schedule and perhaps we can also put one on our website when details are known. One new thing we will be doing in State Doubles this year is that we will take a lunch break, probably after the third game. Don t miss the opportunity to enjoy pitching in the Cowan Civic Center in Lebanon over Labor Day weekend. Hope to see you there. Due to the large number of Men 30-foot pitchers that are now a part of the MOHPA and the fact that the size of the Men s 40-foot Championship Class has been increased and will be pitching both Sunday and Monday, there will probably be some Men 30-foot pitchers who will be playing on Sunday instead of Monday. This is a heads up for the 30 footers who think they will automatically be scheduled on Monday. The annual MOHPA Business Meeting will be held on Friday evening after the State Doubles, at a time yet to be determined. It will be at the tournament site in a meeting room. Everything will be held in that same building, although locations may change from last year. Business will include selection of a State Tournament site for 2013, if any bids are received. There will also be an election of offi cers. The positions up for election are: President, State Statistician, Zone 1 Director, and Zone 4 Director. If you want to take part in determining the future of the MOHPA, then you need to be at the meeting. Bids to host the 2013 MOHPA Club Team Benefi t Tournament need to be in my hands by August 15, Information is available on our website. The MOHPA offi cers will make the selection and the site will be announced during our MOHPA Business Meeting. Entries are closing for the 2012 Club Team Tournament to be held in Liberty as I write this article. It looks like it will be a fun event. If you haven t yet paid your 2012 horseshoe dues, I regret this will be your last issue of Shoe Biz unless you have a subscription or are on the Shoe Biz Boosters list. Details on how to subscribe are elsewhere in this issue. For those who don t know, the NHPA and NHPF have given my late husband a very nice honor. Next time you stop at the Hall of Fame in Wentzville, enjoy watching videos in the Winston Theater. A very nice dedication program was held on the evening of May 5, at the dinner that followed the conclusion of Saturday s pitching in the Hall of Fame Invitational Tournament. NHPA President Stu Sipma and NHPF President Dave Loucks were both present to take part. The talented song-writing team of Amy and Alan Francis and Fred and Helen Brown came up with another gem that Amy, Helen, and Fred performed. I was happy that both of my sons and their families were able to attend, as did my brother Barry Chapelle and his wife, Barbara, from Portland, OR. Barry took part in the 30 foot class. There were several speakers that took part and I thank everyone for the nice remarks that were made about Earl and myself and this tribute that has been given to Earl for his dedication and service to the NHPA, the MOHPA, and the sport of horseshoe pitching. I also thank Jeanette Claas, as I believe she is the one who undertook to put this program together. It was an evening I will never forget. Have a great summer, pitch lots of ringers and encourage a friend to try our sport. Until next time I leave you with this thought, If God had intended for us to touch our toes, He would have put them on our knees. Condensed Financial Report Funds on Hand Nov. 1, 2011 $18, Receipts 13, Expenses 15, Funds on Hand May 11, 2012 $16, Shoe Biz Boosters by Vicki Winston If you would like to receive Shoe Biz via first class mail, please send a donation of $10 or more to the MOHPA in care of our secretary, Vicki Winston, Hwy D, LaMonte, MO A Shoe Biz Boosters donation entitles you to a listing and fi rst class mailing for three issues. Expiration dates are listed below. Some folks continue to send multiple donations, but no listings have been extended past June Thank you all for your support of our newsletter! Listing Expires After June 2012 Issue George Chichura $20 Elwyn Cooper $20 Ernie Ellermann $20 Jim/Carol Howard $20 Frank Rohlfi ng $15 Listing Expires After October 2012 Issue James Caufi eld $12 Val Eikel $20 Bobbie G. Jones $10 Tom Lehmann $22 Rodney Mallinckrodt $20 John Setzer $20 Listing Expires After February 2013 Issue Gary Ball $10 Jim Claxton $10 Ken Grossman $15 Jon McKnight $22 Owen Moore $30 Bob Renfro $48 Fred Smith $25 Jerry Weller $20 Listing Expires After June 2013 Issue Roy Flatt $25 Frank Miles $30 3

4 What s That Rule? by Rich Altis There are several proposed rule changes that will be voted on at the 2012 World Tournament in Knoxville, TN. You may read about them on the NHPA web site ( Below are a few of them. Look them over and let your state offi cers know how you would like them to vote. Proposed Rule Change (PRC2) Requirement 2: All NHPA Tournaments/Leagues Section E Tournament Credit Current Wording (also see RGS page 23) 1. For singles and doubles events, all contestants must have completed at least half of their scheduled games to receive Nat- Stats credit for that event, with a minimum of one hundred (100) shoes pitched. Proposed Change of Wording (new wording is in bold italic) 1. For singles and doubles events, a contestant must have completed at least half of their scheduled games (including any scheduled bye games) to receive NatStats credit for that event, or must have pitched a minimum of one hundred (100) shoes. Reasons For Proposed Change 1. It is possible to pitch more than half of the scheduled games in less than 100 shoes, which is now required in the current wording. This may happen where there are small Class sizes and/or in a Class where the top pitcher may win more than half the scheduled games in less than 20 shoes per game. This sometimes happens in Junior Classes, for example. 2. There have been questions about whether scheduled bye games should be included for the at least half requirement, and so this proposal clarifi es this question. These bye games should be included as when a pitcher is scheduled to pitch their bye game is beyond their control. Also a Pacer opponent may not be available to pitch the bye game, or the court may not even be available (a 7-man Class on three courts, for example). 3. Another reason for this proposed change has to do with all contestants (currently) having to finish at least half of their games, compared with a contestant (proposed change of wording). This way, at least some of the contestants could receive tournament credit; where there was a rain-out, for example. TOURNAMENT QUALITY SIX PAC N.H.P.A. APPROVED HORSESHOES 4811 Tishomingo Road Hillsboro, MO (636) Six Pac Sure Peg Six Pac Sure Point Six Pac Sure Pitch Horseshoe pitching is a game the whole family and all ages can enjoy for fun and exercise and championship play. The SIX PAC is cast of Ductile iron and annealed (softened) to make the shoe absorbent tough when ringing the peg. PRC7B Rule 1, Section E Elder Men Current Wording (also see RGS page 8) Section E Elder Men become eligible to pitch in the Elders Division upon purchase of an NHPA card dated for the calendar year that they become seventy (70) years old. Proposed Change of Wording (new wording is in bold italic) Section E Elder Men become eligible to pitch in the Elders Division upon purchase of an NHPA card dated for the calendar year that they become sixty-five (65) years old. Reasons for Proposed Change (from the author of RC Proposal) As I visited with the past ME committee chairpersons in our charter, it become very evident that we have more of a problem here with folks quitting the sport rather than asking for the medical exemption (only fi ve requests over 20 years), although no one has ever been turned down. In 2009, I know of at least two of our very strong members that did not pitch at all because they were not physically able to pitch full distance, but would have if they would have been able to pitch from the short distance without a medical exemption. I know of these two because they have been club members for many years and I am pretty close to them. I am sure that there are several more out in the charter that I am not aware of that fall into that 65 to 70 age group that have stopped pitching for the same reason. I feel that the NHPA can benefit from this change in a big way, by increased membership numbers. The sooner this can be done, the greater the benefi t to the NHPA and some of the suffering membership who fall in that age group. PRC8B Rule 1, Section A - Juniors Current Wording (also see RGS page 7) 1. Junior Cadets: Any pitcher nine (9) years old or younger for the entire calendar year. Proposed Change of Wording (new wording is in bold italic) 1. Junior Cadets: Any pitcher ten (10) years old or younger for the entire calendar year. Reasons for Proposed Change Thirty feet is too far for many 9 year olds. It is not good to get them interested and then move them back 10 feet, where they get discouraged. PRC10 Rule 1, Section A Juniors Current Wording (also see RGS page 7) 2. Junior Boys: Any male pitcher eighteen (18) years old or younger for the entire calendar year. 3. Junior Girls: Any female pitcher eighteen (18) years old or younger for the entire calendar year. Proposed Change of Wording (new wording is in bold italic) 2. Junior Boys: Any male pitcher seventeen (17) years old or younger for the entire calendar year. Note: This will become effective January 1, 2014, if approved at the 2012 Convention. 3. Junior Girls: Any female pitcher seventeen (17) years old or younger for the entire calendar year. Note: This will become effective January 1, 2014, if approved at the 2012 Convention. See What s That Rule, page 11 4

5 St. Charles County Amateur Sports Hall of Fame Inductees by Jeanette Claas On Saturday, March 24, the St. Charles County Amateur Sports Hall of Fame held its 29th Annual Awards Banquet at the American Legion Hall in St. Charles. Nine men and women with outstanding sports records earned a place not only in the Hall of Fame, but also a place in the hearts and memories of the fans of St. Charles County. These inductees, from all walks of life, share a common interest in the thrill of competing and a love of the game for baseball, softball, dartball, bowling, and horseshoes. Each year, a horseshoe pitcher is nominated and voted on by the Board of Directors to represent the sport of horseshoes. This year two were selected, Andy Foulds and Joan Buchheit. Andy Foulds began pitching horseshoes at the age of 25 at a neighbor s house and met some pretty good horseshoe pitchers who inspired him to continue with the game. Andy gained experience pitching with the St.Charles/Warren County League. He joined the NHPA in 1992 and by 2009 earned himself a spot in the Men s Championship Class at the Missouri State Horseshoe Tournament. Currently, Andy s average is over 50% and he has maintained that average for the last fi ve years. Andy currently serves as 1st Vice President of the QRHC and has served as Tournament Director of the Happy Hearts Tournament for the last ten years. He is president of the Washington Horseshoe League, where he has played for the last eight years. Andy has pitched with New Melle/QRHC Men s League for 15 years and with the Monday night Mixed League, winning the league s championship title four times. He has pitched in 19 Missouri State Tournaments and two World Horseshoe Tournaments. Andy is a horseshoe enthusiast to be reckoned with on the courts. His love and enthusiasm for the game is contagious. He is a most valuable member to the QRHC and to the sport of horseshoes. Joan Buchheit s horseshoe career began in 1989 when the Knights of Columbus Hall was holding a Draw Your Partner Horseshoe Tournament. When she was informed there was a need for another women s team at the Golden Triangle Horseshoe Club in St. Peters, Joan found some friends (including her sister, Rose Diekamp) and thus began many years of horseshoe fun in her life. Joan would go on to pitch with four different clubs: Golden Triangle Horseshoe Club, First Capital Women s League, New Melle Horseshoe Club, and QRHC, of which she is currently a member. Joan received the 2005 and 2010 MOHPA Outstanding Club Member Awards, plus her 20-year membership patch in Joan s most rewarding honor is serving as Co-Director of the First Capital Women s League since Serving as statistician, she did all record keeping while serving as co-director. Joan s team earned the League Championship for seven years. After Joan s husband, Lloyd, passed away, she continued to provide all the stats for the Monday Night Men s Knights of Columbus Horseshoe League in St. Charles. Joan is highly competitive on the courts and just earned her 50% patch in the Day League at Wentzville. Joan is an active member of the QRHC and volunteers for all duties; she s an all-around asset to the sport of horseshoes. Tracy Sherman, Missouri s 1996 State Women s Horseshoe Champion, was inducted into the Hall of Fame, not for horseshoe pitching, but for the sport of bowling. She has been bowling for 24 years with the St. Louis Women s Traveling All Star League and held the secretary position the entire time. Her achievements have been many, including bowling games and having a high series of 806. She has a 24-year composite average of 214 and a composite average of 217 for the most recent ten years; she achieved a 230 average in She has also been inducted into the Missouri State Bowling Hall of Fame (1998), the St. Louis Bowling Hall of Fame (1999), and the St. Charles Bowling Hall of Fame (2001). Four years ago, Tracy was struck with cancer in the tongue/throat area and used a feeding tube for more than a year. It has been three years since her last radiation treatment and today she looks the picture of health. She has expressed a desire to get back into horseshoe pitching. We are very proud of Andy, Joan, and Tracy for being among the 2012 class of inductees into the St. Charles County Amateur Sports Hall of Fame. We wish to thank Joe Faron who serves on the Board of Directors for the St. Charles County Amateur Sports Hall of Fame. It was a very enjoyable night for the 40 QRHC and family members who came to support and honor these inductees. 5

6 by Jeanette Claas 1 st Annual Hall of Fame Invitational Tournament May 5-6, 2012 National Horseshoe Hall of Fame, Wentzville, Missouri Mother Nature was at her fi nest as the horseshoe pitchers arrived in Missouri for the very fi rst Annual Hall of Fame Invitational Tournament. The yellow daisies were in full bloom, bright as the sunshine that greeted the horseshoe pitchers and visitors as they arrived at Quail Ridge Park; even the barn swallows building their nest in the front door awning didn t seem to mind the interruptions as the visitors passed through the door. The QRHC members had done some spring cleaning, painting, and pulling weeds as we wanted to make this exciting event a special one for our visitors. This exciting tournament included 32 of the top championship horseshoe pitchers from coast to coast. The tournament featured the current 16-time Men s World Champion, Alan Francis of Ohio; Women s World Champion Joan Elmore of Tennessee; Elder s World Champion Russ Phillips of Washington; and former seventime Women s World Champion Sue Snyder of Kentucky. The two-day event included a 40 men s tournament and a mixed tournament that combined the talents of women and men competing at 30. The format for each tournament was a 16-person round-robin consisting of point games, eight on Saturday and seven on Sunday. Prize money of $4,000 was given to the top eight horseshoe pitchers in each division. Trophies for each division were made and donated by horseshoe pitcher Randy Grady of Missouri. After months of planning, Joe Faron and Gary Buehler, tournament directors for the 40 Divisions, and Bob and Rose Diekamp, tournament directors for the 30 Division, were eager to get this shoe on the road. Introductions began at 9:00 on Saturday morning as each contestant was introduced on the courts. There were also some special guests that attended this event: NHPA President Stu Sipma (ND); NHPA Hall of Fame Chairperson Vicki Winston (MO); Steve and Paula Summerlin (MI), NHPA webmaster and Newsline editor respectively; and NHPA Historian Bob Dunn (MN). Also attending were NHPF President Dave Loucks (CA) and NHPF Directors Joe Faron (MO), Barry Chapelle (OR), and Stu Sipma (ND). Making their first appearance at QR in this event were Dan Watson (AL), Austin Bailey (IL), Virgle McCown (MO), Ron LeGrand (MO), Barry Chapelle (OR), Lachelle Cook (MO), Buddy Short (FL), and Audra Craven (MO). After the National Anthem was led by Gregg and Audra Craven, it was time for the shoes to fl y. Alan Francis started his fi rst game with a whopping 92.11%; not far behind, Sue Snyder delivered a 90% game. At the end of competition on Saturday, fi ve pitchers remained undefeated: Alan Francis, Tom Williams, Russ Phillips, Sue Snyder, and Marlene Ray. After the competition on Saturday, a special program was held for the dedication of the Hall of Fame video-viewing room in honor of the late Earl Winston. Vickie Winston attended, as did her sons Carl and Keith. Carl was accompanied by his wife, Amy, and their children, Shane and Lindsey, while Keith s wife, Diana, and their children, Hailey and Mason, were also in attendance to celebrate this special occasion. Speakers Bob Rogers, Stu Sipma, and Barry Chapelle shared highlights of Earl s accomplishments and achievements during his horseshoe career. Memories of good times were shared by Stan Griggs, Gregg and Audra Craven, and Amy Francis. A song, Golden Shoes, written by Alan and Amy Francis and Fred and Helen Brown, was sung by the trio, highlighting this special day for Earl and his family. Mel Bruemmer of Jefferson City spoke of his mission in trying to get the Winston s inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. If this passes, they will be the fi rst horseshoe pitchers to be inducted into this facility. A special surprise was in store for Joan Elmore as she was selected to unveil what was behind the door. What she discovered was a statue of her and Brian Simmons that would be placed into the NHPA Hall of Fame as the current World Champions. After the program, the horseshoe pitchers enjoyed a delicious homemade dinner of a variety of dishes and good home-cooked fried chicken by the QRHC members. 6

7 After a good night s rest, Amy Francis sang the National Anthem and the pitchers were back on the courts at 9:00 Sunday morning to resume play. At the end of the play in the 40 division Alan Francis (OH) was the grand champion with 15 wins, a tournament average of 86.09%, high game of 92.86%, and low game of 80%. Tom Williams (MI) took second with 14 wins, one loss (to Alan), and an average of 72.91%. With only three losses, Jim Walters (OH) fi nished in 3 rd place with 73.96%. Dan Watson (AL) had four losses and 69.02% to come in 4 th place. At the end of the 30 competition, four pitchers had three losses each, making a four-way tie for 1 st place and setting up some interesting play-off games. Joan Elmore lost to Herschel Walters and Russ Phillips lost to Marlene Ray. Going for 1 st place, Marlene Ray defeated defending champion Herschel Walters in an exciting match that ended with a score of We wish to thank our sponsors for their contributions towards the prize money: Quail Ridge Horseshoe Club, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, Bob Dunn, Harvey Wobbe, Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Hill, Rick Haynes, Bob Rogers, the Cal Jaeger family, and the Wentzville Chamber of Commerce. Larry Langewisch, NHPA GRS, donated two pairs of horseshoes for raffl e prizes. Checks were given out to the lucky winners and the horseshoe pitchers were soon on their way home; some with good memories, some wishing they had had a better tournament. When you can pitch as well as these 32 pitchers can, you are never considered a loser. Our guests paid us many compliments on what a great tournament and good time that they had. We wish to thank all the NHPA/NHPF offi cials who brought their presence to our courts. A special thank you to all the QRHC members who in some way helped in preparing and putting on such a great tournament, one of the best in the world! 40 Tournament Results Place and Name W/L H/G Ringers S/P Average Prize 1. Alan Francis (OH) % % $1, Tom Williams (MI) % % $ Jim Walters (OH) % % $ Dan Watson (AL) % % $ Gary Urich (IL) % % $ Charlie Webb (IL) % % $ Randy Grady (MO) % % $ Stan Griggs (MO) % % $125 Others participating in the 40 Division were: 9 th, Rick Howe (MA); 10 th, Ron LeGrand (MO); 11 th, Ray Bedard (MA); 12 th, Mo Turner (MO); 13 th, Steve Johnson (MO); 14 th, Austin Bailey (IL); 15 th, Virgle McCown (MO); 16 th, Dennis Griesbaum (MO). 30 Tournament Results Place and Name W/L H/G Ringers S/P Average Prize 1. Marlene Ray (TN) % % $1, Herschel Walters (IN) % % $ Joan Elmore (TN) % % $ Russ Phillips (WA) % % $ Sue Synder (IN) % % $ Barry Chapelle (WA) % % $ Bobby Fields (TN) % % $ Paul McGee (MD) % % $125 Others participating in the 30 Division were: 9 th, Gregg Craven (MO); 10 th, Lachelle Cook (MO); 11 th, Terry Beagle (MI); 12 th, Bob Vandivier (IL); 13 th, Buddy Short (FL); 14 th, D W Story (TN); 15 th, Amy Francis (OH); 16 th, Audra Craven (MO). 7

8 Missouri Horseshoe Club News Lake of the Ozarks Horseshoe Club, Laurie by Donna Bastel We had a very enjoyable winter pitching season at the lake. We held eight leagues (one being non-sanctioned) over the winter and not one snow day. We tried a new concept in a short late fall league Couples Walking Doubles. We only had fi ve teams and played a double round-robin. Since one couple had a bye each week, their duties that week were to keep score and cook dinner for everyone. We had some awesome food and I think we managed to get a little of the fun back into horseshoes. Everyone knows that you can t get the same rhythm going in doubles, so there was more socializing going on. Our Friday night league was a little unusual too. Out of eight pitchers, fi ve were from the same family: Chris and Nathan Evers and Mark, Adam, and Ryan Schepers. Mark and Chris s kids are married and their grandson is Ryan. The grandpas had a little trouble concentrating because they really wanted to watch and coach their grandson. In our End of League Championship Tournament on April 22, Ryan, who is a cadet at 8 years old, ended up our overall league champion. Congratulations, Ryan! By the time you read this, our summer leagues will be underway. We are holding only two leagues, as our numbers are down. Our pitchers have gotten used to playing indoors all winter in perfect conditions. Many of them want a break from pitching and don t want to deal with outdoor conditions such as rain, heat, and wind, and tending clay that is not as perfect as indoors. Hope to see you at the World Tournament in Knoxville. In the meantime, many ringers to you all. Liberty News by Gregg Craven When you get this, the State Team Tournament will be history. We are hoping the weather will cooperate and it will be a big success. It is great to see many Liberty players and others from Missouri going to the World Tournament this year. We hope all will have a good experience in Knoxville. We just started our three summer leagues and would like to recognize our winter league players. The Monday Morning Blahs Champions were Elwyn Cooper and Joe Barry. Our Tuesday Night champs were Nick DiRaimo, Fred Snow (KS), Dahpne Happy, and Steve Dominique. Most Improved in both leagues was Marilyn Levy. High average and high game went to Gregg Craven. High over average went to Terry Kampe and Norm Green; Norm also earned an 80% patch. Dale Franklin (KS) pitched his fi rst 60% game. Keith Johnson got over the 40% barrier. 30% patches went to Fred Snow (KS), David Jackson, Joe Barry, and Tim Fox; 20% patches to Marilyn Levy and Larry Sharp; and Donnie Duke earned her 10% patch in her fi rst league. Our congratulations go to the East again for another victory in the West-East Challenge. Maybe we need to try another format. They are tough! We had 21 in our Juniors Only Tournament this year. We had a non-sanctioned class this year for four Cadets who were a little young to pitch 20 feet. Veteran Warren Highley (5) took that one. He has had a lot more practice than the others (Adrianna Furner, Eli De La Cruz, and Finn Craigg). Thanks again to Laura Johnson for the great pictures. Hope you all get more ringers than last year. Quail Ridge Horseshoe Club News by Jeanette Claas The QRHC is in the midst of some spring cleaning getting ready for two major events: the new Hall of Fame Invitational Tournament to be held on May 5-6 and the National Veteran s Golden Games on June 4. We began planning for these two events last fall and the excitement is with our members as we prepare for these events. The previous months have been fi lled with two or three tournaments each, including our regular monthly tournaments, plus washer and cornhole tournaments; all have been very successful. Before each event, we have a major cleaning and I would like to thank all those members who have come out to fulfi ll this duty. When it looks clean and smells clean, then you know it is clean and ready for another tournament. I can t forget to mention all the members who work so hard in the concessions to keep it running smoothly, from stocking the kitchen to recruiting members to run the concessions during events. After the electronic scoring system was installed last fall, the club voted to up the scorekeepers pay; by doing this we had to raise the entry fee. This was to be done on a trial basis. At the recent April club meeting, a discussion was held and another proposal was made and voted in. We are going back to our original plan, keeping the tournament fee at $20, which includes scorekeeping fees. From time to time, we have heard reports through the grapevine about the QRHC and the cost it takes to play in a tournament at this facility. I would like to address that subject at this point. It takes about $3000-plus monthly to meet our bills. That does not include stocking our kitchen with food and refreshments, restroom supplies, etc. We have kept our concessions at reasonable prices so that it is affordable to everyone. Besides this, Bob and Rose Diekamp run the QRHC GRS, which brings us a little more income. It takes time and money for these volunteers to put this show on. The worst part is that only 10% of our club membership is doing the work. Our next decision will have to be to increase club membership for inactive members. I would like to ask each one of you who pitch at this facility to remember you are pitching at the fi nest horseshoe arena in the world; everything is there to meet your needs and the QRHC is working hard to please you. I would like for you to address your comments to me in the future. Congratulations to Andy Foulds and Joan Buchheit, who were inducted into the St. Charles County Amateur Sports Hall of Fame in March

9 Some QRHC members are looking forward to participating in some out-of-town, out-of-state tournaments this summer, such as the West vs. East Challenge in Liberty, the Team World Event in Beloit, WI, the MOHPA Team Benefit in Liberty, and the Danville Open held in Illinois in July. We are looking forward to going to the 2012 World Tournament in Knoxville, TN, and to the Missouri State Tournament, which will again be held in Lebanon. Good luck to each of you representing the QRHC in these tournaments. Dalton Rakestraw is in agreement with the QRHC to cancel the Tournament of Champions until we get the entry qualifications more worked out. In its place, Rich Altis will be putting on an old-fashioned non-sanctioned Luck of the Draw tournament on the same day. By putting on this type of tournament, we hope to bring in some outside pitchers and recruit them into the NHPA organization. So bring your friends and family and join in the fun for this summertime special tournament. In August, some QRHC members will be going to the Wabash Days at Rotary Park in Wentzville to promote horseshoes and gain some new membership in connection with the Wentzville Chamber of Commerce program. NHPA VP Debby Michaud will be putting on three events at the facility in The Red, White, & Blue Walking Doubles will (Editor s note: The following was forwarded to me by Gregg Craven of the Liberty Horseshoe Club and concerns a fellow club member and pitcher, Darrell Pulliam of Independence.) Even though he s in his early 70s, Darrell Pulliam has never been hospitalized a day in his life. So when he began experiencing chest pains while at North Kansas City Hospital for his wife s knee surgery, he was defi nitely in the right place at the right time. I had brought my wife, Sharon, to the hospital for knee replacement surgery on January 12, Darrell says. I dropped her off at the hospital entrance, then went to park the car. As Darrell climbed the two fl ights of stairs to the hospital s main entrance, he felt a little tightness in his chest. I went with my wife to check her in for surgery, then went to the waiting area, but I kept feeling this tightness, he describes. As Darrell was trying to walk the tightness off, he saw a nurse in the hallway, stopped her, and told her he thought he was experiencing chest pain. She put me in a wheelchair and took me straight to the Emergency Room, where they performed an EKG, Darrell says. Before I knew it I was surrounded by a room full of doctors and nurses. The cardiologist told me I was having a heart attack. Meanwhile, Sharon s doctor was just about ready to begin her knee surgery. The hospital staff got word to Sharon s doctor that I was having a heart attack. They decided to delay her surgery so that she could be with me. It was quite a surprise to us both that I ended up being the patient instead of her. Just 37 minutes after his EKG indicated he was having a heart attack, a team from the hospital s Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory cleared Darrell s blocked artery, using two stents to prop the artery open. In fact, such quick action is just one of the many reasons North Kansas City Hospital recently received Cycle III be on July 7. Grab your partner and get your entry blank turned in by June 30. Look for the entry form in this issue. On Oct. 6-7, the NHPA Sanctioned Club/League Tournament will be held, with VP Dave Sidles presiding. The 3rd Annual Halloween Bash will be given by NHPA VP Tina Hawkins on Oct. 27. This is always a fun tournament for the grownups and kids. Plan to bring your family to this event. We have had several members on our sick list these past few months. We wish our best to QRHC members Jan Kreienkamp and Dot Gooch as they undergo treatment for cancer. Bob Diekamp is recuperating from aneurysm surgery and Mickey Gillette and Mel Bruemmer are recovering from heart surgery. Our thoughts are with Warren Cutright, who is not doing well. John Simms is faced with another toe removal due to diabetes. Gaylord Compton took time off the Day League for hip replacement and was back on the courts before the league fi nished. He even pre-pitched before surgery a real trouper. It was good to see Ken Hardy visiting at the courts and looking really good for all that he has been through. We wish all QRHC members a speedy recovery and hope to see you back on the courts soon. Until next issue, keep pitchin ringers, promotin horseshoes, and bringin in new members. We gotta have em. Darrell Pulliam s Heart was in the Right Place at the Right Time by Sherry Osburn of Osburn Public Relations, North Kansas City Hospital Accreditation with PCI from the Society of Chest Pain Centers. Everyone moved so quickly, I didn t suffer any lasting damage to my heart muscle, Darrell says. I spent three days in the hospital, then my cardiologist released me and said I could return to my normal activities. Now Darrell is feeling great. He plans to work out at his local YMCA and is taking a number of prescription medications to reduce his risk of having another heart attack. We still need to get Sharon s knee surgery re-scheduled, he says, so we ll be back at North Kansas City Hospital in the near future. In the meantime, Darrell is also pitching horseshoes competitively with the Liberty Horseshoe Club. I plan to compete in the world horseshoe tournament in Knoxville, Tennessee, in August this year, he says. I m very lucky my wife had her surgery scheduled that day. I might not have been so fortunate if I had been at home when I began experiencing chest pain, Darrell adds. Everyone acted so fast. The staff was wonderful. If this had to happen, I could not have been in a better place! 9

10 Tournament Reports 2012 Cancer Action Benefit Tournament, March 17, Liberty, MO by Daphne Happy One would be hard pressed to fi nd a person whose life has not been touched by cancer. Fortunately, today, a cancer diagnosis need not be a death sentence, but the challenges of survival can be long and diffi cult. Cancer Action is a local non-profi t agency not associated with any national or government agency. According to Karla Nichols from Cancer Action s Johnson County offi ce, who spoke at our tournament, they rely on local donations, memorials, and fi nancial support that enables them to provide their services at no charge to cancer victims, survivors, and their families. Cancer Action makes a difference by offering a variety of programs and services that address physical, emotional, social, and fi nancial needs. In its infancy, the Cancer Action Benefi t Tournament was directed by Kent Armstrong and his wife, Sharon, both long-time members of the Heart of America Horseshoe Club. Since their passing, Elwyn Cooper has taken over as the director. This year was the eleventh year for the Cancer Action Benefi t Tournament and Elwyn s goal was to get 75 pitchers signed up for three sessions, each consisting of fi ve fi ve-man classes. As any of you know who have tried to get your arms around tournament coordination, pitchers come and pitchers go; illness, death, and other sudden unavoidable happenings dwindled his fi nal count to 68 (65 adults and three junior pitchers). Our youngest pitcher was nine-year-old Ian Gunter. On the other end of the scale, both Nile Abbott and Jim Premer are 82 years young. The game of horseshoes has to be one of the few sports where everyone competing side by side can have a chance to win and have fun! Since all proceeds from the tournament went to Cancer Action, only the coveted class winner s patch was awarded to fi rst place in each class. There were multiple ties broken by ringer percentage, so those pitchers tying the winning record are also being listed. Class A: Gregg Craven (4 and 0) Class B: Ray Canchola (3 and 1) also, Larry Gearheart (same) Class C: Dave Kincaid (3 and 1) also Victoria Highley (same) Class D: Lawrence Loney (4 and 0) Class E: Nile Abbott (5 and 1) Class F: Dale Franklin (4 and 2), also Bob Beaver and Harless Kampe (same) Class G: Jan VanLerberg (4 and 2), also Tom Beaver (same) Class H: Fred Smith (4 and 2), also Gary Fulton (same) Class I: Jim Premer (6 and 0) Class J: Dee McIntire (3 and 1), also Clint Sloan (same) Class K: Susan Fulton (4 and 0) Class L: Fred Snow (3 and 1), also Danny Wetzel (same) Class M: David Jackson (3 and 1) Class N: Megan McLeod (6 and 0) Class O: Darrell Plowman (5 and 1), also Harold Turley (same) Additional donations were received in the form of extra cash from entrants refusing change from their $20 when they paid their entry fee. There were 22 banners lining the courts sponsored by friends and loved ones of cancer victims. After his fi nal tally, Elwyn reports that he has $1, to go to Cancer Action. A huge thank you goes to Elwyn Cooper and Dee McIntire for running a very profi table and enjoyable tournament; and also to Audra Craven for providing a tasty lunch; Laura Johnson for her photos; Gregg Craven, Savanna Johnson, and Hannah Johnson for statistics; and all those too numerous to mention who came early or stayed late to keep score. East vs. West Challenge by Jeanette Claas and Gregg Craven The Missouri East team brought 17 horseshoe pitchers to the western side of the state for some friendly competition. Perhaps we look most forward to pitching in the Don Harris Arena and seeing many pitchers who we grew up with in the horseshoe family. So many good memories that we each hold within. As the Tournament Director from the East side, Don Claas would like to thank the West Team for the great hospitality shown to us each time we travel for this challenging event. The delicious food prepared by the West Team is always tasty and there s plenty to go around. Gregg Craven did a great job directing and running the tournament so smoothly. Class A was loaded with talented pitchers ranging in averages from 63% to 75%. We are most proud of Rose Diekamp, who was really fi red up as she boasted a 96.67% game, pitching 29/30 ringers. She started out with a low game of 47% and ended with a 68.89% tournament average to win the championship title. As an equal opportunity improver, Wayne Henderson of the west side of the state can boast of an outstanding 82.5% game. (Did I mention he was pitching in B Class?) There were three pitchers with 5-2 records vying for 2nd place: Gregg Craven, Nick DiRaimo, and Rich Altis. Since Rich Altis moved to 30 feet the last part of March, he showed off his 30 foot ability with a 75% game and 65.9% average. We would also like to wish Jan Kreienkamp a speedy recovery as she undergoes treatment for breast cancer surgery. Congratulations to the six class winners: A, Rose Diekamp; B, Don Claas; C, John Setzer; D, Ralph Hummel; E, Mike Crouch; and F, Audrey Pappas. The fi nal score of the match was with the East side bringing back the traveling trophy to Wentzville, where we have 10

11 reserved a place for it, at least for another year. Win or lose, it s a great time pitching horseshoes together. Happy Hearts Tournament 2012 by Andy Foulds and Jan Kreienkamp The Happy Hearts Tournament was held on a cold windy day on Saturday, February 11, We had eight classes with 64 pitchers. Rose Diekamp had the high game of the day, 84.21% (32 out of38), against Don Claas (sorry, Big Daddy). The high ringer percentage of the tournament was Rose Diekamp with 71.30%. The high percent over average was by Rose Buehler at 6.57%. Right on! The two winners of the 50/50 in the morning were Rose Buehler and Ralph Thurman; each received $ In the afternoon 50/50, we also had two winners, Terry Murray and Martha Setzer; each won $ Following the fundraising theme, the QRHC also had a raffl e for a horseshoe ring, which was won by Terry Murray. Thank you to all who participated. The club was honored to have been joined for the day by Bob Dunn, NHPA Historian from Minnesota. He was visiting for fi ve days to work on artifacts in the HOF facility. Thanks to Barb Foulds for making the large trays of mostaccioli (baked pasta and tomato dish) to sell at the concession stand. Jan and I would also like to thank everyone who participated in making this tournament run smoothly. Whether you were an active pitcher or were a participant behind the scenes, you helped make this tournament a success. Hugs and kisses! What s That Rule, from page 4 Reasons for Proposed Change The generally accepted age for adulthood in our society is 18. At 18, a young person can vote for president, buy tobacco, register for the military, and in some states can buy alcohol. With the advancement of health and nutrition programs, these juniors are growing larger and taller at an earlier age. I think it looks very silly to see an 18 year old boy who s 6 feet tall standing up to the 27 foot foul line pitching against a 10 or 12 year old. Agreed, not all 18 year old boys are 6 feet tall, but there is defi nitely a large potential spread in the dynamics of this division, and the age should be lowered to 17 years. Many of these same reasons also apply to young women. As for the Note, this is included as a part of the proposal, out of a concern about this reducing of the age of the Boy s/girl s Junior Division. If a Junior was competing in this Division in Knoxville this year and was 17, that Junior would be thinking (and would have been thinking this for several years) that, Well, if I don t win it this year, I ll have one more chance next year. And then, at this Convention, the age is lowered by a year and he or she is out for any chance of winning the title next year! This Convention, and decision, will occur after they ve pitched. What a disappointment that would be! This is not a problem when the age is raised, of course. But with this deferred date, they d still have that one more chance, they thought they d have, and others who are younger will have some time to better prepare/adjust for this change. New Member List Compiled by Vicki Winston We welcome our new 2012 members who have joined the NHPA and MOHPA for the very fi rst time between February 8, 2012, and May 9, We hope you are enjoying our sport. Name City Club Bob Biggs Springfi eld Doling Park Christina Campos Clinton Golden Valley William Daniel St. Charles Quail Ridge Daniel J. Douglas Camdenton Tim Fields Lone Jack Lions Park Daniel C. Flinn Jr. Warsaw Truman Lake E. Leon Floyd Strafford Doling Park Aimee Hanes Independence Independence Kimberly Hanes Independence Independence Larry L. Herbolsheimer Roach Ronnie McCart St. Peters Quail Ridge Ron Miller Lake St. Louis Quail Ridge Conrad Myler Archie Lions Park Dennis Schick Harrisonville Lions Park James Smith Green Ridge Dustin Tongay Park Hills Mineral Area Gene Wernette Springfi eld Doling Park Stanley Williford Park Hills Mineral Area 11

12 2012 MOHPA Tournament Schedule As known May 12, 2012 Visit our web page at Date Sanction # Location Tournament Name Contact or Cell # 2/ Bucyrus Good Luck Valentine McCown ddmccow33@hotmail.com 2/ Liberty Window of % Straughn nmstraughn@sbcglobal.net 2/ Festus Festus Open #2 Fred Smetzer / Glen Allen Birthday Party Blowout Williams nipdpeg2@yahoo.com 2/ Wentzville Spring Team Handicap Tournament Howard horseshoejc@yahoo.com 3/ Liberty Robin Red % B.Craven bcraven2@kc.rr.com 3/ Glen Allen Spring is in the Air Williams nipdpeg2@yahoo.com 3/3, Crane Spring is Coming Hudson / Park Hills March Winds R.McEntire /10, Sunrise Beach Daylight Savings Open Bainter jbainter@charter.net 3/ Bucyrus Good Luck Saint Pats McCown ddmccow33@hotmail.com 3/ Liberty Cancer Action Benefi % Cooper ipitch6@hotmail.com 3/ Wentzville Shamrock Fling Rahe gdrahe@centurytel.net 3/ Festus Festus Open #3 Fred Smetzer / Glen Allen Spring Ringer Flinger Williams nipdpeg2@yahoo.com 4/ Glen Allen Fool's Classic Williams nipdpeg2@yahoo.com 4/ Jefferson City Easter Weekend Open S.Bruemmer sdrr@att.net 4/21 c Festus Festus Open #4 Fred Smetzer / Glen Allen Yee Haw Four Dead Surprise Williams nipdpeg2@yahoo.com 4/ Park Hills April Showers R.McEntire / Peculiar Peculiar Spring Open Bowman glennbowman@ymail.com 4/ Wentzville April Showers Maassen azonian@gmail.com 4/14, Sunrise Beach Bluebird Open Bainter jbainter@charter.net 4/ Bucyrus Good Luck Shower McCown ddmccow33@hotmail.com 4/ Liberty West vs Harris % G.Craven gregg_audra@sbcglobal.net 4/21, Sunrise Beach End of League Tournament Bainter jbainter@charter.net 4/ Jefferson City Spring Has Sprung S.Bruemmer sdrr@att.net 4/ Liberty Juniors Only (IN & OUT) % G.Craven gregg_audra@sbcglobal.net 5/ Chillicothe Chillicothe Open Paul Howard paulhoward@att.net 5/ Park Hills May Flowers R.McEntire / Mountain View Spring's A Bloomin' (Limited Space) D.Hobbs /5, Wentzville HOF Invitational 30 Footers Diekamp rdiekamp@charter.net 5/5, Wentzville HOF Invitational 40 Footers Faron bugsfaron@aol.com 5/ Independence Spring Open P.Henderson waynepam@juno.com 5/ Laurie Spring Fling Open Carter shoefl ipper@charter.net 5/ Jefferson City CCHC Spring Open S.Bruemmer scrr@att.net 5/ Festus Festus Open #5 Fred Smetzer / Warsaw Truman Lake Spring Open Spry jspry61@embarqmail.com 5/ Wentzville Mayfl ower Marathon Gettinger driftbar1@yahoo.com 5/ Jefferson City The Memorial Open S.Bruemmer sdrr@att.net 6/ Liberty MOHPA Club/Team Benefi t Bastel dbastel@lauriekitchen.net 6/ Mountain View Garden's A Growin' D.Hobbs / Park Hills June Heat R.McEntire / Peculiar Peculiar Summer Open Bowman glennbowman@ymail.com 6/ Festus Festus Open #6 Fred Smetzer / Liberty Wilbur Hodgson Memorial (IN & OUT) B.Craven bcraven2@kc.rr.com 6/ Jefferson City Father's Day Open S.Bruemmer scrr@att.net 6/ Marshall Summer Open Kiso nkiso@marshallschools.com 6/ Warsaw Darrel Thrasher Memorial Open Spry jspry61@embarqmail.com 6/ Jefferson City 8th Annual Big Money Open S.Bruemmer sdrr@att.net 6/ St Joseph Ray Cavin Memorial K.Goldizen bkgold@stjoewireless.com 7/ Clinton Old Glory Days Open Gene Loyd / Liberty Ronald McDonald Benefi t S.Johnson savleejoh@aol.com 7/ Mountain View Sunburn Classic Rakestraw rakestraw_1@gmail.com 7/ Wentzville NHPA Red,White & Blue Walking Dbls D. Michaud loonpnd@comcast.net 7/ Laurie Summer Splash Open Bastel dbastel@lauriekitchen.net 12

13 7/ Jefferson City Jefferson City Open S.Bruemmer / Jefferson City CCHC Summer Doubles S.Bruemmer / Warsaw Summer Breeze Open Spry / Sedalia Missouri State Fair Bastel / Independence State Tune Up P.Henderson / Jefferson City Hot Evening August Open S.Bruemmer / Lebanon State Championship Doubles Winston / Lebanon State Championship Singles Winston / Peculiar Peculiar Memorial Open Bowman / Jefferson City CCHC Fall Doubles S.Bruemmer /15, Laurie Hillbilly Fair Open Bastel /17,18, Liberty Liberty Summer Leagues Tournament G.Craven / Jefferson City Capitol City Open S.Bruemmer / Mountain View Pitcher Perfect Open Rakestraw / Warsaw Truman Lake Fall Open Spry / Jefferson City CCHC vs Quail Ridge Club Team S.Bruemmer / Clinton Fall Tournament Gene Loyd / Jefferson City CCHC Club Tournament S.Bruemmer /6, Wentzville NHPA Sanctioned Club/League Dave Sidles / Liberty Kansas City Open % Dee McIntire dinetamcintire@att.net 10/13, Sunrise Beach Frosted Pumpkin Open Bainter jbainter@charter.net 10/ Jefferson City Oktoberfest Open S.Bruemmer sdrr@att.net 10/ Festus Festus Open #7 Fred Smetzer / Mountain View Harvest's Over (Limited Space) D.Hobbs / Wentzville Fall Team Handicap Tournament Howard horseshoejc@yahoo.com 11/ Liberty 12th Annual Holly Marie Memorial % S.Griggs moshoe@kcnet.com 11/ Wentzville NHPA Halloween Bash Altis richaltis@juno.com 10/ Jefferson City Triple Elimination Open S.Bruemmer sdrr@att.net 10/ Liberty Don Harris Memorial % G.Craven gregg_audra@sbcglobal.net 10/ Crane Deer Season Blues Hudson /3, Sunrise Beach Turkey Stakes Open Bainter jbainter@charter.net 11/9, Festus Festus Open #8 Fred Smetzer / Liberty Charles Killgore Memorial % Cooper ipitch6@hotmail.com 11/ Wentzville Turkey Trot Tournament Knobbe knobbe@orcolan.com 11/ Crane Christmas is Coming Hudson / Liberty Harvesters Food Network Benefi t % Dee McIntire dinetamcintire@att.net 12/1, Sunrise Beach Snowball Open Bainter jbainter@charter.net 12/ Festus Festus Open #8 Fred Smetzer / Liberty Santa Claus is Coming % G.Craven gregg_audra@sbcglobal.net 12/8, Wentzville Jingle Bell Rock Moreland mark.moreland@charter.net 12/ Festus Festus Open #9 Fred Smetzer Issued 5/14/12 by D. Bastel. +Addition, c Change, % If cancelling late, call CELL (Craven or ). NOTE: Sanctioned tournaments are preregister. Enter 7 days in advance (much earlier in winter). NHPA Card: State & National dues: Adults $28.00, Juniors $5.00. Order from Vicki Winston: HWY D, LaMonte, MO Attention Tournament Directors: Please check all facts listed pertaining to your tournament(s) and immediately report any errors to the Regional Director in order that timely changes can be made. New Tournament, New Experience by Debby Michaud Announcing a new tournament! The Red, White, and Blue Walking Doubles Tournament will be held in Wentzville at the Hall of Fame building on July 7, This tournament will be hosted by the Quail Ridge Horseshoe Club and will be run by NHPA 5th VP, Debby Michaud. It is hoped that many pitchers who have never seen the NHPA Hall of Fame building will be able to come and join the many pitchers who have seen it and pitched there. For many, the only time to meet competitively for walking doubles is during the State Tournament. This is hardly enough time to remember how to keep score or who pitches first. Here is another opportunity. The benefi t of walking doubles is that each pitcher can use his or her own horseshoes. The benefi t of holding the tournament at the Quail Ridge Park is that many more pitchers will be able to see the fi ne Hall of Fame building and the exhibits there. Combined ringer percentage for each team should not exceed 120%. Entry fee will be $50 per team and can be sent to Debby Michaud at 379 Hodges St., Taunton, MA An entry form is on page 19 of this issue of Shoe Biz so take it out, fi ll it out, and send it in. The entry deadline is June 30. Hope to see you there! 13

14 Quail Ridge Winter League Results by Jeanette Claas Awards, prize money, and patches will be given out at the QRHC picnic on June 9, Wednesday Night Men s League Rich Altis, League Director We had another great horseshoe season. Eleven teams, 23 weeks of pitching. After the fi rst 11 weeks, the top two teams were Vern Griesbauer s RRRR Team in fi rst place and Gary Roehrig s Rookies Team in second. These two teams played the fi rst and second teams of the second half. The winners of the second half were Mick Gillette s team, Making Believe. There were four weeks remaining in the league when Mick had a heart attack and was not able to pitch. With Mick out of the way, I mean laid up, his team won 35½ out of the next 48 games for a great come-from-behind fi rst place win. The Walnut Acres team, under captain Steve Eisenbeis, took second place. For the play-off, we had R-Team playing Making Believe for fi rst and second place. R-Team, with 7 wins and 4 losses, beat out Making Believe for 1st place. The 1st place team members are Vern Griesbauer, Al Derhake, Bob Gettemeier, Jim Reininger, Mark Wilkewitz, and Ron Wilmes. Making Believe team members were Mick Gillette, Jack Barrett, Ken Daniels, Dennis Flake, Ralph Pieper, and Dan Wilmes. In the pitch-off for third and fourth place, Gary Roehrig s Rookies Team with Jim Brown, John Kopp, Ralph Peters, Tony Rohe, and Doug Rosenburg beat out Steve Eisenbeis s Walnut Acres with 7 wins and 5 losses. Walnut Acres Team members are: Steve and Bob Eisenbeis, Frank Garcia, Hubie Molitor, Barry Price, Robert Riley, and John Hocking. Other awards included: High Average, Mick Gillette (54.43%) and Francis Griesbauer (51.39%); High Game, Mick Gillette (64 points) and Francis Griesbauer (71); High Over Average, Ron Yeamans (133% over average game) and Ralph Pieper (89%); Rookies, Al Derhake and Mike Thomson; Most Improved, Dwaine Bowker (50%) and Ralph Orf (33.3%); Sportsmanship Award, Tony Rohe and Ernie Brakensiek. Monday Night Mixed League Ginny Weiss League Director I was very excited at the beginning of the season knowing that we had 20 new pitchers and two new teams! We had some young pitchers in the league; one of them, Bryan Bean, was only 15 years old. We had 15 teams and a total of 78 pitchers. The fi rst-half champs were the Right On team and the secondhalf champs were Plaza Lane. After the play-off game, the Right On team won fi rst place for the league. Team members were Andy Foulds, Jan Kreienkamp, Charlie Foulds, and Gary and Rose Buehler. Other awards were as follows. High Game: Women, Rose Diekamp (67 pts); Men, Rich Altis (68 pts); Elders, Francis Griesbauer (63 pts); Youth, Bryan Bean (33 pts). High Average: Women, Rose Diekamp (54 pts); Men, Mick Gillette (53pts); Elders, Don Claas (51 pts); Youth, Bryan Bean (17 pts). High Over Average: Women, Dot Gooch (74%, 40/23); Men, Smitty Smith (110%, 21/10); Elders, Roy Backs (93%, 25/13); Youth, Bryan Bean (95%, 33/17). Most Improved: Women, Terri Summers (30%); Men, Ken Daniels (39%); Elders, Mike Thomson (41%). Rookies of the Year: Women, Linda Smith; Men, Ken Daniels; Elders, Gary Gooch. Sportsmanship Award: Women, Louise Duke; Men, Mike Guillaume; Elders, Jim Howard. Thirty one patches will be given to league members. Those receiving 50% patches are Gaylord Compton, Carol Howard, Larry Langewisch, and Audrey Pappas. Ralph Hummel earned a 60% patch and Kelly Combs earned a 70% patch. Thursday Morning Day League Don Claas, League Director The Winter Day League began on February 2 and ended March 29. We had ten teams and a total of 30 pitchers. League Champions were as follows. First Place: Harold Duke, Joan Buchheit, and Gary Null (53 Wins, 26 Losses, 2 Ties). Second place: J-Net Claas, Bob Gettemeier, and Audrey Pappas (45-36). Third place: Rose Diekamp, Dee Null, and Chuck Gleason ( ). High Game Points: Elder, Don Claas (109 pts); Womens, Rose Diekamp (131 pts), Mens, Owen Moore (88 pts). High Average Points: Elder, Don Claas (90.9 pts); Women, Rose Diekamp (114.5 pts); Mens, Owen Moore (71.5 pts). High Game Over Average: Elder, Bob Gettemeier (30.8 pts); Women, Joan Buchheit (30.5 pts); Men, Ken Daniels (23.7 pts). Most Improved: Elder, Bob Gettemeier (9.67 pts); Women, Ann Strus (21.0 pts); Men, Gary Null (8.67 pts). Individual Most Wins: Tie, Ann Strus and Joan Buchheit (19 Wins, 8 Losses). Sportsmanship Award: Female, Pat Griewing; Male, John Setzer. Rookie of the League: Men, Ken Daniels (8.10 pts over beginning average); Female, Ruthie Lefholz. Those earning NHPA performance patches were: 10%, Jerry Mauzy; 20%, Chuck Gleason; 30%, Galen Bird and Ken Daniels; 40%, Audrey Pappas; 50%, Joan Buchheit; 60%, Bob Diekamp and J-Net Claas. Last Shoe William L. (Bill) Phelps Sr. April 17, 1929 May 8, 2012 William L. (Bill) Phelps Sr. was born April 17, 1929, and left us May 8, Springfi eld, Missouri, welcomed young Bill to its citizenry 83 years ago. This gentleman was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and worked 31 years with the Ladies Auxiliary of the V.F.W. He showed his military support by being a member of the V.F.W. Lodge 8100 (Grandview, MO), DAV, and Military Order of the Cooties. Bill was a past elder of the Church of Christ. He was serving as a deacon at his passing. Along with his military interests and church servings, Bill had a love of horseshoes. He wanted desperately to pitch more with the Liberty Leagues but his health simply forbade it. His friend Jim Arrowood kept the club informed of Bill s well-being. 14

15 BRING SOME FRIENDS, MEN & WOMEN OF ALL AGES, Join in the fun at this SUMMERTIME SPECIAL HORSESHOE CONTEST! All horseshoe pitchers welcome! SATURDAY, JUNE 23, 2012 The National Horseshoe Pitchers Hall of Fame Quail Ridge Park 100 Bluestem Way Wentzville, MO Double Elimination Luck of the Draw Non-Sanctioned Tournament Backyard Pitchers This tournament is for you! Air-Conditioned Indoor Courts Entry Fee - $10 per person Pay out $200 with minimum of 40 pitchers 1 st place - $100, 2 nd place - $60, 3 rd place - $40 Sign-in time 9AM 10:30AM Tournament Starts 11:00AM Contact Rich Altis, Concessions and Beer on location! Directions: From I-70, exit onto I-64 (Hwy 40/61 South). Exit 1C at Prospect Road, turn right and continue to Duello Road. Turn right on Duello (becomes Quail Ridge Parkway) and continue to the park entrance on the left (approx. 1 mile). Directions: From I-64 (Hwy 40) Exit 1C, go through the two roundabouts (south) on Prospect and continue to Duello Road. Turn right on Duello Road and continue to the park entrance on the left (approx 1 mile). 15

16 2012 Missouri State Championships Singles Entry Information 1. Open to current Missouri residents who are 2012 NHPA and MOHPA members. 2. Entry Requirements: Adult pitchers will be placed into the tournament according to their NatStats average as known August 8, NatStats must show participation in at least three sanctioned events. A sanctioned league average of 400 shoes or more is considered an event. Adult males who have changed pitching distance need three events from their new distance. Juniors or Cadets require only one sanctioned event listed in NatStats by August 8, New Pitchers: Persons who have been NHPA and MOHPA members for a total of two years or less and who haven t previously participated in a Missouri State Tournament may be seeded by one of the following methods if lacking three sanctioned events: (a) Average from any sanctioned events that have been completed. (b) A current sanctioned league average of 400 shoes or more (must be verifi ed in writing by the league director). (c) 200 consecutive qualifying shoes (100 for juniors and 50 for cadets). Qualifying shoes must be scored by two NHPA members who must sign the score sheet. The score sheet must be submitted with the entry form. 4. Entry Information: You must use the official entry form or a copy. Adult entry fee: $35.00 (This includes scorekeeping fees). Juniors or Cadets: No entry fee. Make checks payable to MOHPA and mail entries to Vicki Winston, Highway D, LaMonte, MO Entries must be received by August 11, Late entries will be placed on standby. Have questions? Call or horshuvicki@socket.net. No refunds after the tournament line-up is in print. 5. Six Divisions Available (circle only one on the entry form). Open Men: Any age adult male 40 ft. pitcher. Women: All adult women. Men s 30 : Elder men age 70 or older, and men with medical exemptions who pitch less than 40 ft. Junior Boys: Age 18 or younger for the entire calendar year. Junior Girls: Age 18 or younger for the entire calendar year. Cadets: Youths age 9 or under for the entire calendar year who observe the 20 ft. foul line. 6. Classes: Eight-person round-robins when possible. All games will be cancellation scoring. Length of games as set by the tournament committee. All games are subject to NHPA and MOHPA rules. Judges decisions will be fi nal. 7. Pitchers not completing their schedule forfeit all prizes unless offi cially excused. 8. All Pitchers must wear a shirt with at least their last name lettered neatly on the back. 9. Junior Pitchers: Pay scorekeeper $1.00 prior to the start of each game. Cadets: No charge. 10. Prize Fund: $12.00 of each entry fee plus $500 from the tournament hosts. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three places in each adult class. 11. Trophies: Furnished by the hosts to the top three places in each class. All juniors and cadets will receive awards. A traveling trophy is awarded to adult division champs and junior boy and girl champs. 12. Notification of pitching times will be mailed to all entrants. The lineup will be posted on our website. 13. Courts: 32 portable courts inside the air-conditioned convention center. Doubles Entry Information 1. For Adults Only and limited to the fi rst 128 entries received, or a lesser number divisible by 16. Entries not making the cut will be used as vacancies occur. Those not getting to play will have their entry fee refunded. Doubles will be played Friday, August 31, 2012, starting at 10:00 a.m. There will be a lunch break. 2. Entry Requirements: Same as for the Singles, but using MO Stats averages instead of NatStats. 3. Entry Information: Use the official entry form. Entry fee: $35.00 (includes scorekeeping). Make checks payable to MOHPA and mail entries to Vicki Winston, Hwy D, LaMonte, MO Entries must be received by Aug. 11, Late entries will be placed on standby. No refunds for cancellations after the tournament line-up is in print. 4. Shirt Requirements: Same as Singles. 5. Format: Walking Doubles. You pitch your own horseshoes. Partners are paired by dividing the list of entrants into classes of 16 persons by their entering averages. The top 16 form the Championship class, the next 16 Class A, and so on. In each class, #1 will be paired with #16, #2 with #15, and so on. 6. Prizes: Cash to the top three places in each class. Plaques to the top three places in each class. 7. Notification: You will be advised of your class and pitching time by mail. A tentative lineup will also appear on our website. The lineup usually changes whenever substitutions are made. 16

17 Singles Entry Form 2012 Missouri State Championships Sept. 1 3 Lebanon, MO Name Address City ZIP Phone NHPA Card # Birth Date Circle Division Being Entered Open Men Women Men s 30 (Elders) Junior Boys Junior Girls Cadets Check here if entering under Entry Requirement #3 for New Pitchers. Enclose required documents if entering under parts (b) or (c). Participant Liability Release: In consideration of participating in such activity, I hereby waive, release, and forever discharge the Mo. Horseshoe Pitchers Assoc., all offi cers, agents, employees, and servants of the afore stated organization, and all fellow participants of this event, for any and all action, causes of actions, damage, loss or injury, which I may suffer as a consequence of participating in a Missouri State Horseshoe Pitching Tournament. Signed: Date: Adults: $35 Juniors/Cadets: Free Entries must be received by August 11, Adult scorekeeping fees included in entry fee; juniors will pay scorekeepers on site; cadets, no charge. Doubles Entry Form 2012 Missouri State Championships Aug. 31 Lebanon, MO Name Address City ZIP Phone NHPA Card # Check here if entering under requirements for New Pitchers. Any required documents enclosed for your Singles entry will also be used for the Doubles. Participant Liability Release: In consideration of participating in such activity, I hereby waive, release and forever discharge the Mo. Horseshoe Pitchers Assoc., all offi cers, agents, employees and servants of the afore stated organization, and all fellow participants of this event, for any and all action, causes of actions, damage, loss or injury, which I may suffer as a consequence of participating in a Missouri State Horseshoe Pitching Tournament. Signed: Date: Adults Only: $35 (This includes scorekeeping fees.) Limited to fi rst 128 entries. Entries must be received by August 11,

18 Independence Memorial Mixed Open, Feb. Don Harris Arena, Liberty. Directors: Wayne and Pam Henderson. Class A: Nick DiRaimo % Ray Canchola % Larry Gearheart % Class B: Lawrence Loney % Laura Johnson % Victoria Highley % Class C: Tom Beaver % David Kincaid % Terry Kampe % Class D: Angela DiRaimo % Dale Franklin % Bob Beaver % Class E: Lee Miller Jr % Fred Smith % Sam Vogel % Class F: Darrell Pulliam % Clint Sloan % Keith Johnson % Class G: Susan Fulton % Donald Plowman % Greg Cowan % Class H: Nancy Gunter % David Jackson % Ray Bendure % Class I: Joe Barry % Marilyn Levy % Bobby Johnson % Chilly Days Mixed Open, Feb. Park Hills. Director: Rick McEntire. Class A: Rick McEntire % Ronald LeGrand % Sam Carter % Class B: Danny Gladden % Melody Williams % Ray Ackerman % Class C: Richard Maxson % Joey Griffi th % Daniel W. Allen % Almost Spring Mixed Open, Feb. Hudson Hall. Director: Frank Hudson. Class A: Bob Renfro % Virgle McCown % Raymond Bowling % Class B: Denver Jennings % Paul Parnell % Levi Blevins % Class C: Bobbie Jones % Oren Harris % Jesse Dowell % Class D: Dave Sparkman % Glade Greenup % Joe Cameron % Class E: Douglas Tripp % James Caulfi eld % Daniel Gavin % Class F: Tim Warden % Frank Mills % Jim Claxton % Sweetheart Valentine Mixed Open, Feb. Glen Allen. Dirs: Danny & Melody Williams. Class A: Mike Davault % Carol Schreckenberg % 18 Missouri Tournament Results February April 2012 Travis Braswell % Melody Williams % James Hillis % Class B: Virgil Schreckenberg % Joe Keller % Kelcee Davault % John Keller % Danny Williams % Happy Hearts Mixed Open, Feb. Quail Ridge. Dirs: Jan Kreienkamp and Andy Foulds. Class A: Dalton Rakestraw % Rose Diekamp % James Driver % Class B: Paul Davis % Joe Buskirk % Ginny Weiss % Class C: John Setzer % Edward Griffi th % Jim Howard % Class D: Ronnie Attebery % Jerry Weller % Justin Narup % Class E: Melody Downey % Gary Buehler % Terri Loeffl er % Class F: Danny Gladden % Mark Moreland % Doug Rosenburg % Class G: Justin Riley % Jim Brown % Charles Foulds % Class H: James Adkins % Joyce Mauzy % Mike Guillaume % Peg In My Heart Mixed Open, Feb.. The Pits. Director: Jim Bainter. Class A: Ray Plute % Virgle McCown % Donra McCown % Class B: Alfred Mundy % Dan Couch % Donna Bastel % Class C: Carroll Sinclair % Kenneth Grossman % Jim Bainter % Class D: Dennis Benson % Roy Flatt % Leroy Dooley % Window of Opportunity Benefit, Feb.. Don Harris Arena. Director: Neal Straughn. Class A: Gregg Craven % Audra Craven % Larry Gearheart % Class B: Lyle Samuelson % Charles Gordon % David Kincaid % Class C: Nile Abbott % Ken Perry % Terry Kampe % Class D: Dale Franklin % Elwyn Cooper % Angela DiRaimo % Class E: Jim Bainter % Lee Miller Jr % Denise Bloss % Class F: Clint Sloan % Connie Trautwein % Darrell Pulliam % Class G: Susan Fulton % Daphne Happy % Fred Snow % Class H: Raymond Phelps % Ray Herman % George Chichura % Class I: Bobby Johnson % Marilyn Levy % George Goldizen % Valentine Mixed Open, Feb. Bucyrus. Directors: Virgle and Donra McCown. Class A: Virgle McCown % Donra McCown % Bob Renfro % Class B: Darrin Sherman % Alfred Mundy % Joie Welker % Class C: Tyler McCown % Ronny Lee Mincks % Jesse Dowell % Festus Mixed Open #2, Feb. 18. Dir: Fred Smetzer Class A: Jason Weiler % Dan Peterson % Mary Ann Yates % Frank Rohlfi ng % Darryl Bierkamp % Paul Beard % Jordan Weiler % Tim Engle % Daniel W. Allen % Birthday Party Mixed Open, Feb. Glen Allen. Dirs: Danny and Melody Williams. Class A: Rick McEntire % Cori Stoverink % Virgle McCown % Randy Grady % Class B: Donald Shores % Frank Rohlfi ng % Perry Seys % Terrie Rose % Class C: Edgar Stoverink % Danny Williams % Travis Braswell % Wesley Stoverink % Spring Team Handicap Mixed Open, Feb. Quail Ridge. Dirs: Jim and Carol Howard points: Pat Griewing % Debbie Steinhoff % Mary Ann Dames % Joan Buchheit % Rose Buehler % Audrey Pappas % points: Larry Joe Lucas % Ray Ackerman % Roy Tindall Jr % Andrew Revelle % points: Rich Altis % George Christ % Gidget Rahe % Rick Stockamp % Gary Roehrig % Ernie Brakensiek %

19 Name # 1 NHPA # Name # 2 NHPA # Best contact address: Best contact /telephone # / 19