Fireside: Most Smiles, Fewest Runs Batted In

To the Editor:

In the first game of the playoffs and what became our last game of the season, The Fireside Inn team made a valiant effort to tally its second win of the season. Angie Lettieri cleared the bases with a long ball home run that scattered the seagulls beyond center field. The perfect pickle, played out by Gail Dooling, scored a decisive run and Fireside thought the game was almost won!

Fireside’s offensive game was made even more exciting by the unique “Curly Shuffle” running style of Jackie Kulikowski, who managed to get on base every time. Of course, no game would be complete without Nan Ricciardi’s clutch hits that helped Fireside almost even the score. As always, Fireside’s defense got lots of work despite stellar pitching by Anne Wilson who stepped up to the rubber without a practice throw behind her. Among the defensive highlights were “diving and juggling” left field catches by MaryJo Runkle and the infamous “catch and pirouette” play perfected by Courtney Waters.

And so, the sun sets on Fireside’s “one-but-most-fun-season” with a score of 11-14.

Our particular thanks to our sponsor, scorekeeper, mascot, and prime supporter, Tony “The Rock” Ricciardi who got writers’ cramp recording the runs scored by our opponents and kept the faith all season long. More thanks to Josie Ricciardi, the other half of our generous sponsor, for her support of our team for the fourth year in a row

Here is to 2 wins – at least! Next year!

Aileen Hopper On behalf of Nina, Mariann, Kathy D., Gail,

Louise, Joy, Debbie, Karen, Jackie, and Angela

7 Farmery Lane,  Sandy Hook                                     August 16, 2000