Houston/Larry Dierker Chapter meeting recap – 5/16/2016
Monday, May 16, 2016, was swap night at our monthly Larry Dierker Chapter meeting with lots of goodies to check out and trade. Thanks to all those who brought in books, autographs, uniforms, photographs, posters, and you name it.
We were delighted to welcome back Larry Miggins who was on the DL for awhile. Not only was Larry featured in this week’s Sports Illustrated but he told us the “Vin Scully/Larry Miggins” story and shared some Irish jokes.
A special treat was hearing from Joe Perez, president and founder of the OTW Bat Company. We learned a great deal about moisture content and wood density, plus the origin and reason for the ink spot that now appears on every new major league bat. Joe explained MLB’s strict regulations for bats, sources of the ash and maple woods that make up 90% of all bats manufactured today, and mentioned creative bat handles he is working on. His list of major league players currently under contract is impressive.
Jim Kreuz reviewed the Rogers Hornsby SABR Day meeting in January and Mike McCroskey reported on his efforts to put together a trip to Corpus Christi to see the Hooks and take part in the “Owners Experience.” Please let Mike or myself know if you have interest. The cost for the “Owners Experience” is $75 and there are several travel options.
Tony Cavender presented an interesting trivia contest where Mike Vance and Tom White both had the most correct answers. Mike is to prepare the next contest.
Mike Vance discussed an upcoming presentation by J. R. Gonzales on “All Things Astrodome” on Saturday, May 28 at the Spaghetti Western Restaurant, 1608 Shepherd Drive, Houston, starting at 11:30 AM. Admission is free.
Our schedule for the summer is as follows:
– June 27: Regular meeting at the Spaghetti Western
– July: Take a month off
– August 27: Our annual visit to Minute Maid Park for a meeting at 4:00 PM with Reid Ryan followed by the game between the Astros and Toronto.
Tickets for the Astros game cost $31.00 and checks made out to the Houston Astros should be mailed to Jo Russell, 15021 Kimberly Court, Houston, TX 77079.
— Bob Dorrill
bdorrill@aol.com