_________________________________________________________ F A M E F O R U M N E W S L E T T E R N A T I O N A L W O M E N 'S B A S E B A L L H A L L O F F A M E National Syndicated Column (contents are protected) Copyrights(c), NWB Hall of Fame, 1998-2006 TXU877085, TXU959430, TXU973266, TXU013972, TXU986753, TXU949885, TXU004037, TXU022893, TXU026161, TXU047111, TXU050230, TXU061149, TXU088068, TXU120937, TXU148132, TXU163784, TXU170668, TXU196853, TXU211917, TXU216769, TXU234252, TXU253116, TXU260664, TXU180346, TXU288273, TXU311442. Issue Number 00356 _________________________________________________________ Volume IX, Number 35 Publisher and Author December 14, 2006 Richard C. Jaffeson Washington, DC HallFame@usa.com http://www.eteamz.com/hallfame _________________________________________________________ 2006 NWB HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS NELSON, DOMINGUEZ, TRIOLO SEE THE WEBSITE FOR ALL "HALL OF FAMERS" http://www.eteamz.com/hallfame/albums DIDRIKSON, HOWARD, SCHILLACE, DANCER, FERGUSON, WINTER, WRIGHT, LUKASIK, MILLIKEN, BALLENTINE, GEYER, WALLACE, CIULLA, GUIDACE, MACURIO, SHELDON, BEAUCHAMP, HUDSON, BRENNEMAN, FERENO, SWEENEY TED WILLIAMS WEBSITE http://www.saveted.net _________________________________________________________ A. COLUMN: FINEST FLAMER FAMED The Triple Crown is a coveted prize on the fields of sport. In horse racing, there have been only eleven such winners with names such as Affirmed, Seattle Slew, and Secretariat. In major league baseball, the title is equally as rare with only sixteen players so designated since 1878, whether they were actually awarded the title or not at the time. In the more recent Twentieth Century, only Ted Williams and Rogers Hornsby earned that distinction twice (1942 and 1947, and 1922 and 1925, respectively). And, the last player to do so was Carl Yastrzemski in 1967, almost 40 years ago. The award, Triple Crown, signifies achieving excellence in three areas of endeavor which reflect consistent capability and overall outstanding performance. Clearly, in women's baseball there are many individuals who have demonstrated exceptional performance, and twenty-four received annual induction into the NWB Hall of Fame based upon specific procedures and criteria, and thirty-nine were also honored with national MVP awards. This year another form of recognition is being introduced, not measured by statistics, but nonetheless representing consistent contributions in three significant areas to the league as Commissioner, her team as General Manager, and as a highly accomplished player (NWB/HoF induction in 2000, and national MVP manager award in 1999). JoAnn Milliken, as the Commissioner of the Eastern Women's Baseball Conference, General Manager of the Virginia Flames, and Virginia Flames center fielder is being recognized in December 2006 as the first Triple Crown recipient with the NWB Hall of Fame. This award extends beyond a national MVP, and the unprecedented recognition reflects her exceptional endeavors in three categories, --league, manager, and player. The following is a recent award statement by Flames Manager, David Fyfe, and words of appreciation from Flames teammates inscribed on a special honorary plaque gratefully presented to JoAnn Milliken on December 2, 2006. David Fyfe, Flames Manager December 11, 2006 "It is with great pleasure that I announce JoAnn Milliken's selection the 2006 Virginia Flames team Most Valuable Player. JoAnn had a good year on the field, hitting .465 against the EWBC with 12 RBI and 8 SB from the Number 2 spot in the Flames batting order in the 12 games in which she played." "JoAnn continued to play solid defense in center field, setting a team record of 6 outfield assists. The team also recognizes JoAnn's value in team leadership." "Much of the Flames' success is due to the duties she performs which are commonly associated with the role of a General Manager for a team, namely: recruiting players; keeping a friendly, but competitive, attitude among her teammates both on and off the field; and arranging opportunities for teammates to improve their skills through regularly scheduled practices and off-season workouts. The team also recognizes her role in keeping the EWBC a vibrant organization, allowing women the opportunity to play baseball." Plaque Inscription from Flames Teammates December 2, 2006 "In recognition of her tireless efforts running the Virginia Flames year after year, as well as the entire EWBC, the 2006 Flames would like to present this token of their esteem to JoAnn Milliken." "We hope this gesture conveys our appreciation for her undying love of the sport and her total commitment to promote a welcoming place for women to fulfill their dream of playing competitive baseball in the Washington D.C. area." "With much love, 2006 Virginia Flames" Additional Commentary in Fame Forum Over the past nine years, numerous articles have been written in this publication about JoAnn Milliken and members of her team the Virginia Flames. The following are excerpts from selected issues. "We Are Family, All My Sisters and Me," Fame Forum, Volume II, Number 43, November 6, 1999 The stadium rocked to the sounds of Sister Sledge as Pops took it home for the Pirates in 1979. Yes, "Family," that concept and spirit makes a difference in baseball, right down to the World Series. Creating that image is important, as with most things in life, it starts with home and family. . Years later at a more distant age for some of us baseball is rediscovered, and we recall what it once was and attempt to recapture those feelings of family and friends. There is now an instant attachment to the "new" game from those past images, but there is a difference, suddenly we are the adults. We have not forgotten the skills, but there are other abilities that have developed over time and acquired with age, a better understanding of the game and greater appreciation of others. We are no longer kids just thinking about ourselves, but now we are the ones that offer advice and encouragement. We understand how to step outside of one world and see a more complete perspective of what unfolds before our eyes, and know what we can influence and what cannot be changed. Our horizons have expanded, and can be adapted in a new fashion to the original game we love. When we were young in our teens, perhaps there were others with that perspective, --dad, older sister, favorite uncle, or best neighbor, always ready to help. Aside from learning the game, they were the ones that imparted the values and characteristics by their examples, lessons, and stories. They were our first coaches, and showed us the basepaths to follow for the future. They were a unique blend of family and friends with knowledge and guidance to bring out the best in us at all times on and off the field. They were special people to always remember. In regulation baseball leagues, these special individuals are also present, and the best are often recognized as Manager of the Year. They combine skills and talent with motivation and inspiration for every player and the team. One special person in this baseball sport, who creates a sense of family and friends whenever she plays, is the manager of the Virginia Flames, JoAnn Milliken. JoAnn was honored this season as Manager of the Year for guiding her Virginia Flames to the League Championship, organizing the tenth anniversary Labor Day Tournament for the Washington Metropolitan Women's Baseball League (WMWBL), and serving as the WMWBL Commissioner. These are formidable roles, and all well accomplished, for a fine baseball player and effective manager. She plays extremely well at her position in center field demonstrating her skills and talent. Her motivation and inspiration to the team creates loyalty, a willingness to achieve, and builds that sense of family. JoAnn Milliken was born in Philadelphia in 1953. Today at 46 years old she is 5'6" and 115 pounds. Her size and quick speed provide great advantages at her favorite position in center field. She has been manager of the Flames since the team was formed in 1992, although since then they had several name changes. To add to her responsibilities, she also became WMWBL Commissioner in 1996. She picked #9 for her uniform after Orioles center fielder Brady Anderson. She said that, "We catch the same way..., off to the side near the eyes, rather than overhead." This is apparent when fielding and highly effective for JoAnn in action tracks the ball and rarely misses a deep fly. Her speed provides the positioning, eyes keep her focused on the ball, and fast reflexes complete the play. In her own words, JoAnn noted the following. "I enjoy playing outfield because it's challenging and exciting. Tracking a ball from a far distance, making a long running catch in the gap, judging how deep to play, being ready to run in or run out; there are many facets to outfield play. If a ball gets by me, its extra bases, a lot more pressure than playing the infield." "I love to make catches on balls when runners on base, or coaches, don't believe I'm going to get. The runner takes off and sometimes gets caught in a double play." "Hotter Than the Fourth of July," Fame Forum, Volume VI, Number 14, July 6, 2003 A slight taste of sweat and dust barely touches our lips, that salty-sweet combination of dry warm invisible fine golden grit which almost cannot be seen but is ever-present and is only found this time of year on the right days when players and field together create those familiar sensations for it's July, it's summer, and it's baseball! Swing, swing, swing, then kick the dirt, more dust, and a shirt tale is tucked in place. Crunch, crunch, crunch, the sounds of cleats on hot loose gravel, and a batter walks towards an assigned place. A wisp of breeze arises from nowhere and vanishes in an instant. A low growl by the umpire, play resumes, while the next batter waits... "Come on there JoAnn, just like your Brady." a whisper of encouragement was given for only one person to hear. She immediately knew the reference, cooly said nothing, adjusted her cap, and slightly grinned in recognition. "Sure, that's right, this is baseball, and sometimes we don't need any words," I said with my eyes and smile. I continued with thoughts to myself while watching JoAnn instinctively select her best bat. She carefully studied the pitcher and current hitter, while patiently waiting her turn with the bases loaded. "Sure, Brady is her favorite player, everyone knows that, especially when he was an Oriole." I looked slowly around through the close hot air surveying the horizon and tree line as if he was watching this game from somewhere above. Brady was born here in Silver Spring, but I would have to search the records for the exact date. I turned on my player biography, an electronic database, typed in "Anderson, B," and then waited several seconds. "There it is," I read the screen, "Silver Spring, MD, January 18, 1964. This must have been at Holy Cross, it's the only major hospital, just down Georgia Avenue from here at the Beltway. Hmmm, he'll be 40 next year, still playing in the majors." "JoAnn admired him when he was an Oriole," I commented and looked further, "Starting in 1988, 14 years with the O's, respectable figures, and a .256 average. He always seemed to get on base when needed, and punched the ball through the infield, which was an old Orioles strategy even before there was an American League, 'Hit 'em where they ain't.' Brady has his own version of that slogan, 'Get runners on base, and advance the batters to score.', which is a formula for success in any league." "Way to Go Joltin' Go" Fame Forum, Volume IX, Number 11, April 7, 2006 A recent rendition of a hit song from the summer of 1941 served as an introduction while the broadcast's host and invited guest positioned themselves near the microphones and became comfortable as the revised new lyrics mingled with an accompanying ageless catchy schoolyard tune and merrily reverberated around the studio. "She stars on baseball's hottest team, and gets everyone all aglow. She's just one gal who plays supreme, Joltin' Jo from Bent Willow." "Hey, Jo, Jo what do ya know, we all want you on our side." "She formed those Flames back in 1992, and in talent they did grow. Managing or playing Jo comes through, her teammates she will show." "Hey, Jo, Jo what do ya know, we all want you on our side." "Niner's trusted bat is sure and fast, other pitchers warily state. As her RBI's add up with every crack, and Flamers cross homeplate." "Hey, Jo, Jo what do ya know, we all want you on our side." "A Philadelphia lady Mack would adore, proudly Jo holds an Ivy PhD. Like Mack she directs diamond scores, and presides over a league." "Hey, Jo, Jo what do ya know, we all want you on our side." "All the Flamers will sing her praise, Laura, Rosie, and Steph too. For many champs Jo's made sunny days, they shout Milli-ken can do!" "Hey, Jo, Jo what do ya know, we all want you on our side." "She lives on in the NWB Hall of Fame, inducted in 2000 oh, oh, oh. Others will tell their kids her name, Joltin' Jo from Bent Willow." B. NWB HALL OF FAME PRODUCTS These baseball items are available from the NWB Hall of Fame: new induction poster, commemorative buttons (2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000, and 1999), personalized magnet locker nametags, t-shirts, caps, knife, and ten model bats. Free commemorative ribbons are also available. The website main page has an order form, and the photo page displays several items. http://www.eteamz.com/hallfame C. HISTORIC TIMELINE December 12, 1864 Phenomenal Smith birthdate, MLB pitcher. December 13, 1943 Ferguson Jenkins birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 14, 1897 Margaret Chase Smith birthdate, US Congress. December 15, 1900 Christy Mathewson traded to NY Giants. December 16, 1901 Margaret Mead birthdate, anthropologist. December 16, 1951 Mike Flanagan birthdate, MLB pitcher. December 16, 1964 Billy Ripken birthdate, MLB player. December 17, 1903 Wright brothers first flight. December 18, 1886 Ty Cobb birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 18, 1916 Betty Grable birthdate, film actor. December 18, 1930 Bill Skowron birthdate, MLB player. December 19, 1894 Ford Frick birthdate, MLB Commissioner. December 19, 1934 Al Kaline birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 20, 1881 Branch Rickey birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 20, 1888 Fred Merkle birthdate, MLB player. December 20, 1900 Gabby Harnett birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 21, 1912 Josh Gibson birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 21, 1954 Chris Evert birthdate, tennis champion. December 22, 1862 Connie Mack birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 22, 1944 Steve Carlton birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 23, 1942 Jerry Koosman birthdate, MLB player. December 24, 1889 Bill Otis birthdate, MLB player. December 24, 1922 Ava Gardner birthdate, film actor. December 25, 1865 Evangeline Booth birthdate, Salvation Army. December 25, 1855 Pud Galvin birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 25, 1888 First indoor baseball game in Philadelphia. December 25, 1958 Rickey Henderson birthdate, MLB player. December 26, 1837 Morgan Bulkeley birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 26, 1947 Carlton Fisk birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 26, 1954 Susan Butcher birthdate, Iditarod champion. December 27, 1943 Roy White birthdate, MLB player. December 28, 1900 Ted Lyons birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 29, 1937 Mary Tyler Moore birthdate, Emmy Award winner. December 30, 1935 Sandy Koufax birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 31, 1857 King Kelly birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. December 31, 1870 Tom Connolly birthdate, MLB Hall of Fame. D. FAME FORUM ISSUES Volume IX, 2006 Season Publications Number 35, Finest Flamer Famed (Milliken), December 14. Number 34, Clifford's Mysterious Morning, December 7. Number 33, Case Addendum of JoAnna Dollar, December 2. Number 32, Case of the Purloined Bat (DiMaggio), November 28. Number 31, Clifford's Hometown Parade, November 21. Number 30, Eephus, Eiphus, Ophus (pitches), November 20. Number 29, Magnus Force --Make My Day!, November 5. Number 28, Better Babies and Baseball (SIDS), November 2. Number 27, Clifford's October Surprise, October 30. Number 26, Where in the World is Carmen Dominguez?, October 13. Number 25, More Information on NWB Hall of Famers, October 11. Number 24, 2006 NWB Hall of Fame Inductions, October 9. Number 23, 2006 Nominations for Induction, October 2. Number 22, Program Announcements, September 11. Number 21, LBI's Batting Third (Brenneman), August 22. Number 20, Saving Ted Williams, August 8. Number 19, Ted Williams Action Agenda, August 4. Number 18, Say it Ain't So Joe (treatment), July 6. Number 17, Spirit of 1776 (painting), July 2. Number 16, New NWB Products Available, June 26. Number 15, Meet Jane Doe (codes), June 22. Number 14, 2006 NWB Hall of Fame Induction Form, May 31. Number 13, Playing on Abraham's Side (Williams), May 25. Number 12, Clifford Finds the Easter Bunny, April 14. Number 11, Way to Go Joltin' Jo (Joes and Jo), April 7. Number 10, Alibi Isis Misses Spring Training, March 31. Number 09, Clifford Wears Some Green, March 15. Number 08, Let the Games Begin (1936 Olympics), March 14. Number 07, To Be or Not to Be (Williams), February 24. Number 06, Clifford's Favorite Valentine, February 10. Number 05, Models D29 and 36D (Marilyn), February 5. Number 04, Additional Recognition (letter), February 1. Number 03, Breaking Away (DiMaggio), January 20. Number 02, Annie's Big Apple (Runyon), January 10. Number 01, That Was the Year That Was (2005), January 1. http://www.eteamz.com/hallfame/news E. NWB HALL OF FAME PROGRAMS The National Women's Baseball Hall of Fame, an independent not-for-profit organization established September 1998, is situated in suburban Washington, DC. The objective is to recognize achievements of women in regulation baseball. The NWB Hall of Fame offers these programs for participants in regulation baseball with organized leagues. Managers are are encouraged to recommend recognition awards and suggest articles on their teams, players, or events. Applications are available through email and are posted on the website. NWB HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS Nominations for the NWB Hall of Fame are due September 30. Inductions may include four current and one previous players by formal application or candidate statement. NATIONAL MVP AND MANAGER AWARDS MVP player and manager award requests are due December 31. Season nominations should be by a manager or administrator. One MVP player per team may be selected annually. Membership covers transmission of newsletters, announcements, invitations, applications, and access to all website pages. Membership is $9.00 renewed annually, and an application is available on the NWB Hall of Fame website. _________________________________________________________ NATIONAL WOMEN'S BASEBALL HALL OF FAME Richard C. Jaffeson, Executive Director PO Box 15282, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20825 301-847-0102 HallFame@USA.com http://www.eteamz.com/hallfame "National Women's Baseball Hall of Fame" is a registered trade name with the State of Maryland. MD672265, October 19, 1998. Programs, articles, and contents presented herein are protected under provisions of the U.S. Copyright Office, Library of Congress. Fame Forum registrations are listed below: TXU877085, TXU959430, TXU973266, TXU013972, TXU986753, TXU949885, TXU004037, TXU022893, TXU026161, TXU047111, TXU050230, TXU061149, TXU088068, TXU120937, TXU148132, TXU163784, TXU170668, TXU196853, TXU211917, TXU216769, TXU234252, TXU253116, TXU260664, TXU180346, TXU288273, TXU311442. Copyrights(c), NWB Hall of Fame, 1998-2006 __________________________________________________________