Board Meetings

May 21, 2003

Mar 3, 2003

Feb 10, 2003    Feb 3, 2003

Jan 20, 2003    Jan 6, 2003

Dec 16, 2002

Nov 25, 2002        Nov 4, 2002

Oct 21, 2002        Oct 7, 2002

May 21, 2003

Back to Top

Mar 3, 2003

1. Standard Agenda Items:

A. Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) - 8 Mar - Work Day at Valparaiso field. The Minor A managers have been notified. Clay Elliot is bringing his tractor and they have a truckload of clay. The more people that show, the quicker the work will go. The park range schedule was passed around. Everyone needs to sign up for at least two weeks. Board members that don't sign up will be assigned slots. 

B. Budget Review (Patti Baker) - We currently have $27,000 in the bank. $19,000 is allocated toward uniforms. 

C. Committee Reports: 

1. Executive Board - No report 

2. Player Agents - Tentative schedules for the Majors, Minor B & T-Ball are posted on the web. Minor C should be out by the end of the day and Minor A by the end of the week. Twin Oaks will not be available for Minor A games. We will most likely be playing Wednesday night games with Minor A playing at both Valparaiso and the Major League fields. Paul Williams voiced a concern from some of his parents the time frame when games are cancelled due to poor weather. Some parents are unhappy that the decision is made right before game time. There are several reasons for this: weather varies greatly in this area. It is impractical to cancel all games when there is a chance it may clear up. Sometimes it may be pouring in Bluewater Bay, but nice at the fields. If you cancelled games early and the weather clears, you have parents upset that games were cancelled. Bottom Line - You can't please all parents. There is always going to be a percentage of parents that won't be happy with your decisions. We do the best we can in servicing the needs of the vast majority of parents/children. TEEN LEAGUE - We are still getting straggler calls for sign up. Brad is planning on having a booth opening day for sign ups. We are one month away for tryouts and will need volunteers. Tina & Cindy Chavis will be the point of contact for the concession stand. Brad will do uniforms with Don. Brad requested that we get the senior league tournament for Niceville. There will be a teen league player agent meeting on Mar 16th. 

3. Concessions - We have a line on a hot dog machine for $450 dollars. It was decided that we would try and make the existing machine work until it dies. Four rollers work on the machine. If it fails, we will resort to microwaving dogs. The Valparaiso ice machine will take an estimated $300 for repairs. The board approved up to $300 for Robbie to make the necessary arrangements for repairs. For the most part, the concessions stands are ready to go. The pizza contract is still being arranged and the nacho cheese is being ordered. Coke has delivered the beverages and will be flushing the machines for the season on Wednesday. Opening day Major League games will be played at the Major League field and the concession stand will be manned by volunteers. 

4. Uniforms - The supplemental order is in and should be here by the end of the week. Gary will check with AAU to see how they are coming along with the lettering and patches. Send Don an e-mail for uniform issues. The support shirts and hats are available on-line through League Direct. Encourage access by using the link on the NVLL web site as we get credit for points. The hats are $3.50, shirts are $10 for children and $12 for adults. Mullen will get the uniform sheets from AAU and put in the team mom packs. 

5. Equipment - The pitching machines and cords are at Twin Oaks. We have SM and XSM batting helmets. We can swap them as needed. We have plenty of equipment for the teen league. The soft toss will be placed at the Valp and Major League field. Brad proposed that we put together our own safety kits to limit cost and put only needed items in them. 

6. Fields & Grounds - Gary will notify the City of Valparaiso to cut the grass, replace field lights and lights in the concession stand. Bob Mathers presented the fence options and the bids. At the very least, we will need to get rid of the fence portion that sticks out on the Major League field for safety reasons and to comply with Little League rules. The bids were from Niceville Fence, Ft. Walton Fence and Shalimar Fence. The board gave Bob the authority to make the decision on who to repair the fences. We still have $7500 allocated for field improvements from the city of Valparaiso. The quotes are:

Major League Field: $1380 - Niceville Fence (price includes dugouts & $960 - Shalimar Fence fence modifications) $857 - Ft. Walton Fence

Valparaiso Field: $2245 - Niceville Fence (price included dugouts & $1965 - Shalimar Fence border fence repairs) $1980 - Ft. Walton Fence

7. Umpire Coordinator - There were 30 people at the clinic. 

8. Team Mom Coordinator - The team mom coordinators are in place. We still need one for the Major League. 

9. Clinic Coordinator - All clinics are done. This item will be removed from the standard agenda items. 

10. Sponsors - Darren & Patti - We have all the sponsors except for the teen league. We currently have 3 and need 4 more. Patti is ordering the sponsor banners. The board approved $150 to renew our banner that is posted at the Niceville High School. 

11. Opening Day Parade/Ceremony - Dennis Samac - There was a lot of discussion regarding whether to have the parade or cancel it due to safety concerns, mainly guarding against the speed of the vehicles and players in the back of pickup trucks. Several members voiced their opinions. The only other district still doing it is Defuniak. Gary asked Sandy Fleeman's about the issue and he had no opinion. The board members present unanimously decided to have the parade. The next issue was the parade route. The starting point options were: Lewis Middle School through Valparaiso and Niceville; Edge Elementary to Twin Oaks; OWCC, down College to Twin Oaks. It was decided to start from Lewis to include the town of Valparaiso since they are a part of our league. The police are ready to support us on the parade route. There must be two adults in the back of every truck to ensure the player safety. There will be absolutely no fire trucks, boats or trailers allowed. The order of events and presentation of teams was discussed. Gary asked the list of announcements regarding special guests, coaches & teams be given to him for preparation. The board approved presentation of a plaque to Bob Mathers for his past service as president. We need volunteers to help the Friday before to prepare the field with banners, tents and general setup. Patti will try to make the events work in the open section of the fields. If she can't, we will contact the city regarding the use of the space beyond where they are digging.

2. Old Business:

A. No old business.

3. New Business:

A. Top dresser - Gary got a lead on a 1997 top dresser for $3500 plus $200 for shipping. At a previous board meeting, a purchase was approved utilizing the $1900 for city fees. Gary will proceed with the purchase. (closed) 

B. Tournaments - Sandy Fleeman wanted to know if we were interested in the 9 yo East tournament. That would give us 4 tournaments. We no longer have the requirement to pay for hotels/meals for state, which was a factor in us barely breaking even last year. Most board members were in favor as long as we could keep the tournaments to one field. It is too difficult to organize volunteers when it is spread out. This decision was tabled until later. (open) 

C. Safety plan - Brad is in charge of this and knows it is due by April 1. (closed) 

D. Waiver approval - Southern Region approved our waiver request to change Rule 4.10 to call games a tie after 6 innings for the minor machine/player pitch and after 7 innings for the majors due to field availability. See attached. (closed) 

E. Girls Fast Pitch Softball - We currently do not have a team in Niceville. The girls can play in the Shalimar league but Niceville would have to field a team to do so. The cost to file the paperwork is $40. The board approved this providing we do not have to do the paperwork beyond the initial request.

4. Next meeting: To be determined. If there is an urgent matter that needs to be decided. Gary will convene the executive board.

Back to Top

Feb 10, 2003

Gary Wood opened the meeting by addressing the board, introducing himself and giving a brief description on his philosophies on being president, his goals, how he conducts business, the organizational structure and his plans for the rest of the year.

1. Standard Agenda Items:

A. Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) - We are through the crunch time. Practices begin 17 Feb. The pitching clinic is 16 Feb. The managers' meeting is the 23rd and the Team mom meeting is the 24th. We will be ordering uniforms and getting the schedules ready for practices and games. Keys will be issued to a few board members for the lights at the softball complex for practices. They will remain on until 8:30 -9:00 pm. We will also work on a park ranger schedule. 

B. Budget Review (Patti Baker) - No report. We actually made $301 in concessions during tryouts. The board recognized Patti's accomplishment of passing the CPA exam. 

C. Committee Reports: 

1. Executive Board - No report 

2. Player Agents - After tryouts, it was determined by the managers that we had safeties in the following leagues:

Majors - There was one request for a trade due to a pending lawsuit of the potential sponsor. Approved 

Minor A - A review of last week's vote regarding the continuous batting order issue. 

Minor B - There was one trade in Minor B due to two sponsors on one team. Also, Ken Lowe withdrew as a manager. Steve Dietzius was approved in his place. 

3. Concessions - Patty Mullen and Deede spent $2400 and made the major purchase of the starting concession items. A big "thank you" goes out to Jim Phillips and his Traveling Eagle team. The boys unloaded the van full of supplies in less than five minutes. We will be selling several new items. Deede will check on a new hotdog steamer/cooker. Howard Hill of PAL Soccer is making sure the high school cleans the Twin Oaks stand prior to turnover. The ice machine is fixed for now. Apparently a screen had shifted out of position preventing ice from dropping down. It will need a new filter for the season. 

4. Uniforms - There will be a 10 - 14 day turnaround for uniform lettering. Managers will need to turn them around quickly. Don will order all uniforms and will be the sole point of contact for changes/problems. The uniforms will be going to the player agents and be issued to managers/team moms. Patty Mullen will get the uniform sheets from AAU and put in the team mom packs. 

5. Equipment - The initial order has been made and the equipment should be arriving shortly. We will replace equipment as it comes in. A suggestion was made to check with other local leagues to see if they can use the old equipment. If it can't be used locally, we will offer it to neighboring little leagues. The backstops should be up by 1 Mar 03. 

6. Fields & Grounds - Robbie Davis will let Mike know the date of the workday. Ricky will make sure the work area around the automated sprinkler system will be roped off for safety. Gary has inherited the top dresser issue. It may be too late for this season, but is a long term investment in the long term care of the fields. 

7. Umpire Coordinator - no report 

8. Team Mom Coordinator - Team mom meeting Feb 24th. Patty requested that a player agent and a coach for each league be present for questions. Everything for opening day is on schedule. Patty has access to a refrigerator truck to store perishable items. Arm bands will be sold for opening day to participate in events. After opening day, the arm bands cam be used for a free game of bowling at Destin Lanes. Sponsor recognition was discussed. We will have banners posted recognizing sponsors. It was suggested that we also list them in the "Play Ball" section of the Bay Beacon. Patty also needs tables for opening day. Les Stevens will bring his list of volunteers from the 33rd to the next meeting. 

9. Clinic Coordinator - Chuck Simpson - We need at least 10 signed up for the pitcher's clinic. We currently have 7, but there are still at 5-6 more interested. Managers need to beat the bushes to get players signed up. 

10. Sponsors - Darren & Patti - We currently have 40 sponsors. We need 47. 

11. Opening Day Parade/Ceremony - Dennis Samac - Gary will talk to Dennis regarding the parade/ceremony. 

2. Old Business:

A. No old business.

3. New Business:

A. The maroon shirts for board members are in. They are $25 per shirt. Please pay Patti. (info)

4. Next meeting: 3 Mar 03 at 6:30 pm - Board members must come prepared with reports and answers. All items should be addressed as we will only have two weeks before opening day.

Back to Top

Feb 3, 2003

1. Standard Agenda Items:

A. Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) - Make-up tryouts are Tuesday this week. Volunteers are needed at 4:30. The drafts are Wed (Majors), Thurs (Minor A) & Fri (Minor B) at 6:00 pm at Lewis Middle School in Dennis Samac's classroom. Only player agents, league secretary and managers are allowed. If the manager cannot make it, he can send only one representative.

B. Budget Review (Patti Baker) - No report.

C. Committee Reports:

1. Executive Board - No report

2. Player Agents - After tryouts, it was determined by the managers that we had safeties in the following leagues:

Majors - 5 safeties/2 requests Minor A - 4 true safeties/1 questionable. We had one request to play up that was approved. He can be nominated/voted on as an 11 yo All Star. If he is not, he is automatically nominated as a 10 yo. Minor B - 17 true safeties/8 questionables that probably should play down 4 questionables that should play up.

a. In other news, Roger Kennedy will be moving to Colorado and will therefore, be unable to manage. Mike recommended Mike Willingham to take his place. The board approved for him to take over management of the Major League Yankees.

b. Randy was asked by the Minor A managers to revisit the decision to use continuous batting order in Minor A division. Seven managers were against, one for and three were indifferent. Cited reasons were: Not used in All Stars; Managers need to be experienced in substitution strategy; Wanted to play "real" baseball; and inability to use "rabbit runner". Minor B managers have not said much about it. The board voted to keep the continuous batting order in Minor B and to discontinue it in Minor A. Mike will do the necessary work to amend the rules.

c. Mike requested that due to the low numbers of returning 12 yos that we only have one 12 yo All Star team. We would rather field one competitive team than two potentially weak teams. This request was approved by the board.

d. We still need one Minor C manager.

3. Concessions - We made $252.25 in concessions during tryouts. Deede will try and get the combo from Howard Hill (PAL Soccer) so we can see how much cleaning we need to do. We will be going to Sam's this weekend to purchase supplies. Deede expressed the need to replace the hotdog machine at the Valparaiso field. The current only works on the two rollers. She will do a price check at Sam's and contact local vendors.

4. Uniforms - Don was not available for the meeting, but did send out an e-mail answering some of the concerns addressed at the previous meeting. The board decided to go along with Don's recommendation to go with AAU for lettering and patches. Hat embroidery will be the individual teams' responsibility.

5. Equipment - Beau did an equipment review. The main items needed were shin guards for the catcher, chest protectors & catcher's mitts. The backfields will need assembly. Beau will head this project up.

6. Fields & Grounds - Robbie Davis has a meeting with the city this week to discuss field improvements. Ricky said it will cost $650 to automate water system and should be done by mid February. Niceville Fence has been unresponsive to our request for quotes. We will look at other options. The city will put up the required fencing at Twin Oaks.

7. Umpire Coordinator - no report

8. Team Mom Coordinator - Patty Mullen - Team mom meeting Feb 24th. Patty needs a box of manila envelopes for the team info packages. Deede asked that Patty include the reminder requesting small bills under $20 for the concession stands. There will be no boats or trailers in the parade due to safety concerns. The menu will be changed slightly. As most kids don't eat the cole slaw or beans, we are going to a hotdog or burger with chips and a cookie. The cookies will be provided by Bill Mullen's company. People's bank will donate food and possibly the grill and some volunteers.

9. Clinic Coordinator - Chuck Simpson - We only have 4 signed up for the Pitching Clinic by Simply the Best scheduled for 16 Feb. Please encourage managers to encourage players to sign up.

10. Sponsors - No report.

11. Opening Day Parade/Ceremony - Dennis Samac - No report.

2. Old Business:

A. No old business.

3. New Business:

A. Greg Hasty has been activated by the military and has an estimated departure date of two weeks. Board candidates are Randy Sims and last year's vice president Gary Wood. It was acknowledged by the board that Randy should be our first choice as a current board member. Randy felt that Gary could devote more time to being president and stated that unless someone was severely opposed to Gary, he would assume the presidency. Most board members knew Gary from last year and were glad to have him back. (info)

4. Next meeting: 10 Feb 03 at 6:30 pm

Back to Top

Jan 20, 2003

1. Standard Agenda Items:

A. Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) - We have 321players registered. Tryouts are this weekend. A sign up roster was passed around. Mike went over field layout and flow of players through each station. 

B. Budget Review (Patti Baker) - We have $49,000 in the budget. We are still waiting on sponsor money. 

C. Committee Reports: 

1. Executive Board - No report 

2. Player Agents - Major League, Minor A, Minor B (See attached lists) & Minor C were voted on and approved. We still need a few more for Minor B & Minor C. T-Ball will be voted on at the next meeting. 

3. Concessions - There will be concessions during tryouts. The only products that will be sold are candy, soda, water and powerade. The supplies are already stored in the concession area. Volunteers will be needed. Deede met with Carol Buckman from Coke. Basically, there will be an automated ordering system with decentralized delivery. Stock levels will be set at each concession stand. A "hot-shot" order is in the works for tryouts. Deede will pick up the check for the team sponsorships and will organize the opening day drinks. 

4. Uniforms -Don presented the bids for uniforms. See attached. The contenders are TSP and AAU. AAU was more expensive but they can do the hats on site. The main issue with them is how they apply the Little League patch: glued vs sewed. TSP had quality issues last year with shirt color bleeding on the numbers. Don will get answers to these questions and present them at the next board meeting for a vote. 

5. Equipment - There are still five bags of equipment out. Les will be ordering equipment this week. 

6. Fields & Grounds - Robbie Davis is supposed to be meeting with Niceville Fence to get a quote for repairs. We will need separate quotes for the Valparaiso and Major League fields. Jim Baughman has said we could keep the collected non-resident fees and put them toward the purchase of the top dresser. The board approved a $2500 limit, plus the $2300 from Jim, for Mike and Greg to find a top dresser. 

7. Umpire Coordinator - no report 

8. Team Mom Coordinator - Team mom meeting Feb 24th. 

9. Clinic Coordinator - Chuck Simpson - Chuck acknowled that out of all the managers approved at tonight's meeting, only 9 have signed up for the Coaches clinic. This clinic is mandatory and meets the criteria for our insurance. Player agents need to impress upon the coaches the importance of this clinic. It will also be stressed at the managers' meeting. 

10. Sponsors - Still coming in. 

11. Opening Day Parade/Ceremony - Dennis Samac - Patti Mullen verified that the supplies from last year were available for use. The items from Coke are set in the contract regarding cups and how many sodas they provide. We do not have any special recognitions at this time. There is still some question on whether the city will have the ground usable by opening day. Jim Baughman will let us know. She asked if anyone had a generator or if she needed to rent one. It was determined a rental was needed. She will need to find grills for use in the cookout. 

2. Old Business:

A. No old business.

3. New Business:

A. New board members voted in: Tina Chavis and Cindy Chavis. Also voted in at the last meeting: Jim Phillips. This completes our board at 30 members. (info) B. Greg went to the President's meeting. Several things were brought up:

1. RL Turner has dropped out of Little League. Milton is now forming team leagues. Greg is actively pursuing three tournaments for Niceville. 

2. Board Training - Greg will send out an e-mail for board members to attend training. The board will pay for members to attend. 

3. Paid umpires - If we had paid umpires, we would have to pay liability insurance/workman's comp. 

4. Volunteers must have completed forms on file to be covered under our insurance. (info)

4. Next meeting: 3 Feb 03 at 6:30 pm

Back to Top

Jan 6, 2003

1.  Standard Agenda Items

A.     Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) – We have 315 players registered so far.  The next big event is the Jan 11^th registration.  We are expecting at least 3-400 players.  A sign up roster was passed around.  After the Parent’s meeting, the player agents will have 10 days to recommend managers.  Players’ clinic is the 18^th & 19^th.  Tryouts are Jan 24^th, 25^th & 26^th.  8 Feb is the Board training seminar.  It will be at the Mary Esther Elementary School.

B.     Budget Review (Patti Baker) – No report

C.  Committee Reports: 

1.      Executive Board – No report

2.      Player Agents – Everything had passed with the exception of how the All Star managers were selected.  This is discussed under old business.  Player agents will meet after the board meeting.

3.      Concessions – There will be concessions during tryouts.  The only products that will be sold are candy, soda, water and powerade.           

4.      Uniforms –Don proposed the following:  1-2 POC’s with decentralized shipping for each league.  This will save the league money.  This was approved by the board.  Don will call TSP & AAU for bidding regarding patch sew ons & names.  Mike proposed that since the bright orange hats did not go over well with some board members last year, that we purchase maroon shirts that will identify park rangers.  The shirts were $24 each.  This was approved by the board.

5.      Equipment – Equipment is still coming in.  We have $50,000 points to use from League Direct.  Les will bring the list of available items that we can purchase with points to the next board meeting.  Beau suggested that we go with a full grain leather ball this year.  Last year we used split grain leather which is of a lesser quality. 

6.      Fields & Grounds – Bob Mathers is still getting an estimate for the fence repair and present it to the city.  Ricky will try an get the water system done by the end of February.  The board approved $1,000 for installation/supplies.  Ricky also discussed how the field should be maintained in regards to the topdresser and sand. 

7.      Umpire Coordinator – Mike Semon asked for topics for the managers/coaches clinic.  It was agreed that a rules review, field work and a question/answer session would be most beneficial.  He will present a basic plan at the next meeting.

8.      Team Mom Coordinator – The team mom meeting has been moved to Feb 24^th.  This is due to the availability of the City Council Chambers.  

9.      Clinic Coordinator – Chuck Simpson – Chuck needs a head count.  Please make sure to turn all forms into him.

10.  Sponsors – Mike is recruiting Kay Barrett & Brenda Rogers to head up this committee.  He has made the phone calls and is waiting for a response.

11.  Opening Day Parade/Ceremony – Dennis Samac – Nothing to report

2.      Old Business:

A.       All Star Manager Selection - Deede presented last meeting’s proposal that All Star managers be selected based on performance in the post season tournaments.  This would help alleviate the controversies, political posturing and tie situations that we had last year.  This was voted down by the board. (closed)

3.      New Business:

A. Traveling Eagles/Valparaiso field use:  Stewart Davis wants to coordinate use on the Valparaiso field.  He would like to use it on Wednesday nights and Sunday afternoons. This is the same as last year. This is approved.  (closed)

B.  Greg will be going to the District meeting in a couple of weeks.  He would like to lobby for get a couple of tournaments here.  Brad Schneider would also like to get another teen tournament here.  (info)

4.  Next meeting:  20 Jan 03 at 6:30 pm

Back to Top

Dec 16, 2002

1. Standard Agenda Items:

A. Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) - The next big event is the Jan 4th & Jan 11th registration. A sign up roster was passed around. Players' clinic is the 18th & 19th. Tryouts are Jan 24th, 25th & 26th. We need to decide if we are going to have concessions. 

B. Budget Review (Patti Baker) - No report 

C. Committee Reports: 

1. Executive Board - No report 

2. Player Agents - Everything had passed with the exception of how the All Star managers were selected. 

3. Concessions - No report 

4. Uniforms -Minor league uniforms do not come in sizes small enough to fit our needs. We will stay with major league teams. Don asked the board to consider having the uniforms come in one shipment to a centralized location. It would save $600 in shipping costs. Historically, we used to do that and the problems were separating the uniforms out by team. We would consider it if the uniform company would separate them out prior to shipping. 

5. Equipment - Equipment is still coming in. 

6. Fields & Grounds - Valparaiso has grass. It needs fertilization. The city currently has $7500 for park improvements. We need to get an estimate for the fence repair and present it to the city. We would like to put a timer on the sprinkler system there. The city approves of this as long as they can put a meter on it to track water usage. We are also looking to purchase a top dresser for use on the fields. The city cannot fund the entire cost, but may be willing to split the cost. 

7. Umpire Coordinator - Mike Semon asked for topics for the managers/coaches clinic. It was agreed that a rules review, field work and a question/answer session would be most beneficial. He will present a basic plan at the next meeting. 

8. Team Mom Coordinator - Patty is planning a team mom meeting on Feb 25th. She will call Niceville and request the City Council Chambers for the meeting. 

9. Clinic Coordinator - Chuck Simpson - Al & Al clinic was discussed. 

10. Sponsors - Mike has the completed package to hand out to a designated point of contact. Letters are going out in the next couple of days to past sponsors. 

11. Opening Day Parade/Ceremony - Dennis Samac - Nothing to report

2. Old Business:

A. Chamber of Commerce Representative - Tim VanDam & Brad Schneider (closed) 

B. All Star Manager Selection - Deede presented a proposal that All Star managers be selected based on performance in the post season tournaments. This would help alleviate the controversies, political posturing and tie situations that we had last year. There was not enough members to vote on this and it will be voted on at the next meeting. (open)

3. New Business:

A. New Board Member - Brandon Huff (info)

4. Next meeting: 6 Jan 03 at 6:30 pm

Back to Top

Nov 25, 2002

1. Standard Agenda Items:

A. Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) - The next big event is the December 7th registration. A sign up roster was passed around. Everyone needs to sign up for at least three sessions. Mike passed around the mailer and asked for inputs and/or corrections. These will be mailed for registration.

B. Budget Review (Patti Baker) - Delayed due to Patti's absence.

C. Committee Reports: 

1. Executive Board - No report 

2. Player Agents - Rules committee met. Mike went over the rule changes. Mike emphasized the biggest change of continuous batting order for the minor leagues. There was a lot of discussion in the fact that the "rabbit runner" cannot be used in conjunction with the continuous batting order. Everything was passed with the exception of how the All Star managers were selected. Deede proposed that the managers be selected based on performance in the post season tournaments. This would help alleviate the controversies, political posturing and tie situations that we had last year. A vote was taken and enough individuals were in favor to except this item from passing. Deede will write up a proposal for the next meeting. 

3. Concessions - No report 

4. Uniforms - Don will get with Wayne Carver to get samples. It was approved to use Minor League team names for the Little League minor leagues. Don will bring the proposal to the next meeting and will hopefully have samples for the first registration. The team store link is now on our website and we will get a 5% profit from all orders generated by participants that use this link. 

5. Equipment - Equipment is still coming in. 

6. Fields & Grounds - Seed has been placed down for the Valparaiso field. 

7. Umpire Coordinator - no report 

8. Team Mom Coordinator - Patty has been trying to get the historical information from last year for planning purposes. Deede will help her reach Rayna McGlockton from last year. Les Stevens is trying to organize volunteers from the 33rd Wing at Eglin. 

9. Clinic Coordinator - Chuck Simpson - No report. 

10. Sponsors - Mike has the completed package to hand out to a designated point of contact. 

11. Opening Day Parade/Ceremony - Dennis Samac - Nothing to report

2. Old Business: None

3. New Business:

A. Chamber of Commerce member - It was unanimously voted to participate in the Niceville/Valparaison Chamber of Commerce. Membership is 75$ per year. We will designate our representative at the next meeting.

4. Next meeting: 16 Dec 02 at 6:30 pm

Back to Top

Nov 4, 2002

1. Standard Agenda Items:

A. Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) - Mike reviewed the calendar once again.  There will be a workday at the Valparaiso field Sunday, Nov 10, 1:30 PM.  Our first registration is set for Dec 7, 9:00AM – 2:00PM.  Signup sheets for shifts for registration were passed around.  Everybody needs to volunteer for at least 3 shifts to ensure we have enough workers to make registration smooth and efficient.

B. Budget Review (Patti Baker) - Proposed budget for 2003 is attached and was unanimously passed.

            C. Uniforms (Don Boyer & Robbie Davis) – Don Boyer has agreed to be the point man on uniforms.  Robbie Davis has already done research on uniform options and Beau Schreiber should bring some corporate experience to the process.  The board discussed use of Minor league team uniforms for T-Ball through Minor A.  This may provide cost savings to the league, will give the leagues some unique team names (Mudcats, Lugnuts, etc.), and could start a tradition of Minor League play graduating to the Majors at age 11 & 12.  Don and Robbie will present a proposal at the next board meeting.

            D. Equipment (Les Stevens) – Still collecting equipment from last year.  Part of Valparaiso workday Sunday, Nov 10, will include equipment storeroom modifications and cleanup.

            E. Fields & Grounds (Robbie Davis) – There will be a workday at the Valparaiso field Sunday, Nov 10, 1:30 PM.  Bring shovels and wheelbarrows.  Top dressing dirt will delivered and Mike Clements will provide the top dressing machine.  We need to provide some manual labor.  Les Stevens would also like some help on the equipment room.  We need maximum participation in this, our first workday.  The more volunteers that show, the quicker the work will be done.

            F. Umpires (Mike Semon, not present) – Discussed ways to improve umpiring.  Decided to get Mike fired up with some new ideas to get volunteer umpires and relive some of the manager workload.

            G. Clinics (Chuck Simpson) – Southern Region announced their managers clinic in St Petersburg.  If interested see Chuck.  Also, Al & Al Coaching Clinic will be coming to Tallahassee 14-15 Dec.  Stand by for more details.

            H. Team Moms/Opening Day (Patty Mullen) – Patty discussed the need for a detailed contract for Rockclimb.com this year. 

2. New Business:

A.     District President’s Meeting 27 Oct (Greg Hasty) –

a.      Split District – Sandy Fleeman presented a proposal to split Dstrict 1 into 3 separate districts.  Our new district would have Sandy as District Administrator, and could include Shalimar, Mary Esther, Destin, Eglin, Hurlburt, Niceville, Crestview, and Baker.  This would mean less travel for district tournament play and more opportunities for success at the district level.  The Board voiced near unanimous agreement that this was a good thing.

b.      Website Link – The Board voted unanimously to put a link on our website to League Direct for ordering equipment and uniforms.  All sales through this link would provide a 5% rebate to the league.

c.      Magazine sales – Discussed without much interest.

B.     Website Renewal (Mike Rarick) – Our Website renewal will cost approximately $200.

C. Volunteer Background Checks (Mike Rarick) – Little League Baseball is now mandating background checks for all volunteers.  All Board members present filled out and turned in a Volunteer Application.  J Hughes will conduct the checks and the League President will keep all forms until the season ends.

3. Next Meeting: 25 Nov 2002 at 6:30 pm

Back to Top

Oct 21, 2002

1. Standard Agenda Items:

A. Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) - The next big event is the December 7th registration. Greg will attend the President's meeting this weekend.

B. Budget Review (Patti Baker) - Delayed due to Patti's absence.

C. Committee Reports: 

1. Executive Board - besides the four officers, the additional executive board members are: Mike Rarick, Brad Schneider and Don Head 

2. Player Agents - Nothing to report. There will be a rules meeting this Sunday. 

3. Concessions - Deede Wayne (overall). There was a correction in who will head up the various fields. The correct POCs are: Major League Field - Deede Wayne Valparaiso Field - Janet Simpson Twin Oaks - Patty Mullen /Lois Van Dam 

4. Uniforms -Don Boyer/Beau Schreiber - We need to make sure we have a coordinated effort this year. Robbie suggested that we go with minor league team names. This would result in an estimated $1260 in savings. Don Head will head up the organization of this committee. 

5. Equipment - Les Stevens/ Beau Schreiber 

6. Fields & Grounds - Robbie Davis/Ricky Early/Dennis Criddle - A workday will be scheduled to overseed the Valp field and inventory equipment. Robbie will get with Gary Wood regarding the 5K set aside by the city for park improvements. There will be a to-do list on our web site. Robbie will look at the list and prepare proposals. 

7. Umpire Coordinator - Our new board member Mike Semon along with Dennis Lawson will head up the umpire committee. 

8. Team Mom Coordinator - Patty Mullen - Nothing to report at this time. Patty will get with Rene Hill (last year's coordinator) for historical information/handouts 

9. Clinic Coordinator - Chuck Simpson - We are making the managers clinic mandatory because it gets us our insurance because they get safety briefing in the process. The cost per individual is $20. We will cover the cost of the managers and half of the assistant coaches. The information will be posted at registration. 

10. Sponsors - Mike Rarick will call the following individuals to see if they will head up this committee: Brenda Rogers, Kay Barrett and Chrissy Baker. 

11. Opening Day Parade/Ceremony - Dennis Samac - Nothing to report 

12. Opening Day Festivities - A motion has been made to start a tradition of the Major League team moms coordinated these festivities. Patty Mullen volunteered to spearhead recruitment and to start preparations.

2. Old Business: None

3. New Business:

A. New Board Members - We welcome Mike Semon. (info)

B. Fundraisers - We have decided not to have any fundraisers this year. We are going to put all our efforts into organizing opening day. Last year was spectacular and we made $10K. (closed)

3. Next Meeting: 4 Nov 2002 at 6:00 pm

Back to Top

Oct 7, 2002

1. Standard Agenda Items:

A. Calendar Review (Mike Rarick) - Mike reviewed the calendar and handed out hard copies to everyone. The next big event is the December 7th registration. All individuals with computer/web site access will receive e-mails reminders provided by Yahoo.

B. Budget Review (Patti Baker) - Proposed budget for 2003 is attached and was discussed.

2. New Business:

A. Board Positions: 

1. Executive Board will be named later 

2. Player Agents: 

Teen League - Brad Schneider 

Major League - Mike Rarick/Deede Wayne 

Minor League - Randy Sims 

Minor B - Greg Rackley/Lora Hyatt 

Minor C - Paul Williams 

T-Ball - Donald Head 

3. Concessions - Deede Wayne (overall) 

Major League Field - Deede Wayne 

Valparaiso Field - Patty Mullen 

Twin Oaks - Janet Simpson/Lois 

4. Uniforms -Don Boyer/Beau Schreiber 

5. Equipment - Les Stevens/ Beau Schreiber 

6. Fields & Grounds - Robbie Davis/Ricky Early/Dennis Criddle, etc. 

7. Umpire Coordinator - TBD

8. Team Mom Coordinator - Patty Mullen 

9. Clinic Coordinator - Chuck Simpson 

10. Sponsors - TBD

11. Opening Day Parade/Ceremony - Dennis Samac 

12. Opening Day Festivities - TBD

B. Board Training - There is an administrative class that we can attend the 18th & 19th of January. This class can help individuals become better board members. It also allows for an opportunity to share ideas and network with other baseball leagues. (info) 

C. All star policy for uniforms and travel - We have decided to set a precedence that the board will budget funding for 50% of Allstar uniform costs. This funding will only be as the budget allows. We will inform the parents at the initial meeting. We hope to avoid the negative feedback that happened last year when it was announced that we could not fund allstar uniforms because we went over budget with the Major League concession stand renovation. (closed) 

D. Policy on Clinics - We decided to go with Simply the Best clinics because they provide certification for managers/umpires. 

E. Uniforms: Deede Wayne nominated Beau Schreiber to head up the uniform position. He verbalized toward the end of last year's season that he had contacts that could provide uniforms at significant savings than what we were paying. Since he is not at tonight's meeting, he will be approached at the next meeting. (open) 

F. POC for Valparaiso and Niceville field improvements - Robbie Davis volunteered along with Ricky Early and Dennis Criddle. We need to schedule workdays to overseed the fields for the winter season. 

G. Fundraisers - Held over until the next meeting.

3. Next Meeting: 21 Oct 2002 at 6:00 pm

Back to Top