Congratulations, Apologies, and Thanks!

I want to congratulate Kelvin Lomax for his victory in the Beltsville Bash, and to Big Keith for again making it to another Championship game. After K-Lo’s victory in the tournament and in the Beltsville Pro League (His 3rd in a row, I think.) It’s safe to say that he is the current Big Poppy in that style of play. Lo, you’re one of the best, and I look forward to hooking up with you in the DSEFL. As far as Big Keith… he’s my roommate at the Dixie league so we’ll be hanging out again very soon. A special shout out to CorEy Johnson and Big Keith for both sending me Bash updates. CorEy happened to call me while I was on campus watching President Obama give his commencement speech to the graduating class. Notre Dame had it all this weekend, from the President to the protestors; it’s something that I will never forget.

I also want to congratulate D.C. for completing his junior year at Notre Dame. He’s now a rising senior and a year away from graduating. He’s done some phenomenal things of note this past year, and I hope next year is a good one for him as well.

My apologies go out to Ravenna Al and Tim Young. Guys, I’m really sorry that I didn’t get to hook up with you on Saturday. Normally we get to South Bend on Friday evening, but because of work issues we didn’t leave as early as we wanted to, and had to pull over for the night in Ohio about 1am. We didn’t get rolling again until checkout, so consequently we didn’t get to SB until late in the afternoon on Saturday. I’m sorry I missed hanging out with you guys, but I hope to make it up to you guys the next time I’m in town. (If you guys let me.)

I want to thank the Dunagan family (Jimbo, Mabel, and Maylin) for their hospitality on Sunday and Monday. We had a great time in Chicago, thanks to you guys. I was very surprised and touched by the coaches who came out to see me, and I had an awesome time hanging out with you cats.

Michigan Joe, it was great spending time with you bro. I learned a lot about the passion you have for innovations, and your professional way of looking at our hobby. You really taught me a lot about taking pride in your work, and how quality is job 1.

Ron C, You my friend have some really hot teams. From your Green Bay Packers to your Wisconsin Badgers, those teams of yours have talent and a really good coach at the helm. I learned that you are a very good coach who knows his team, and knows how to use them.

Frank (The Professor) Johnson, It’s always great hanging out with you my friend. I think I learn something new every time we hangout. I loved those Dolphins of yours, especially that No-Name Defense. It was a blast watching you lead your team, with the experience and guile of a seasoned veteran. I hope next time we can renew the rivalry between your ’85 Chicago Bears and my ’85 New England Patriots. Man I’d love to get those teams back on the board again.

And lastly…

Jim Breezy, That Miniature Football room of yours is off the Heezeey! Your teams look great, your Boards and Bases run great, and your field covers ARE great. Sorry I couldn’t take my Cowboys board home. I didn’t have the room, and that dang board was as big as a pool table. Thanks for at least letting me take my Cowboys cover with me. It’ll look great on my other board until I can bring that Big Hoss home.

All of you guys taught me something during our time together. I look forward to doing it again very soon. Maybe the four of you could start a league or something. I’ll post some of the pix I took.

Take care,

Don Smith

Yup, Yup!!!

Yeah!!!

It was GREAT having yous guys stay with us!!! Nothing beats MF and Texas Hold Em and semi-frozen margaritas and pina coladas. Oh yeah, was that pizza off the hook or what? It might not be as good as New York's best, but it is definitely a close 2nd!!!

Thanks for sharing some secrets with The Chicago Outfit. I know they all left outta here doing the Arsenio Hall "Hmmmmmmmmmmm!?!"

[NATIONAL]

Don we had a great game of phone tag going on when I was leaving from the BASH! lol

I hope you got some pix from your day at Notre Dame, watching the Obama speech!

You guys look like you had a great time.

Thanks for sharing.

Nat'l

[Michigan Joe]

Don it was great meeting you in person. Definately the best part of the hobby is the getting together. I wish I could do it more oftern. It was fun watching you work your magic with the bases...thanks for the two starters!

See you in Canton.
Joe

[Bluegnuoy]

Don't sweat it Don we'll catch ya next time around. Tim

[Franny-j-boy]

All I can say is the fellowship you all had is something to always remember, and I just wish i could have been with you all because that is one hell of a group shot of great people. The boards, men ,and action are awesome. I'm glad you all had a great time. God bless all you you men.

[Coach K-LO]

thanks for the shout-out, Don.

Looks like you guys had some fun!!!!!!!

Michigan Joe, I need some of your figures...........Hybrids are sooooo cool, Mang.

[Ron_C]

Don, it was great to have spent some time with you. I look forward to our next meeting.

Ron.