Printed letters, June 7, 2012

By Staff
Wednesday, June 6, 2012

While the Reivers celebrated their JUCO championship, many of us witnessed an unbelievable episode of egregious behavior at the end of the championship game when a San Jacinto player physically went after the home plate umpire.

The resulting chorus of loud boos was clearly heard on the radio telecast. I witnessed a number of other incidents from this hothead and other San Jac players during the tournament, at least one of which resulted in an ejection.

Immediately after the incident, some folks commented, “It’s too bad one player can ruin it for the whole team.”  No, it’s not one just one player. When San Jac wins, its team members are sportsmen; if not, they are part of an ugly team. This is about leadership, so place the blame squarely where it belongs — on the head coach and staff that enable it and the college that tolerates it.

It’s time to make an example out of any team that tolerates this behavior, as it demeans every team in the tournament. The noteworthy interaction of most teams with the fans, especially the youngsters, is something to behold and may be unique to this tournament and this venue. It must be preserved. Therefore, we need to penalize rude and inappropriate behavior, be it a warning or suspension of both the guilty players and/or the school. Unfortunately, we may need to enforce a code of ethics and personal behavior.

At the very least, the fans, our city, the GJ Baseball Committee, JUCO and all the participating teams deserve an immediate personal apology from the president of San Jacinto College North.

JOHN KIRBY

Captain, USN retired

Grand Junction

JUCO visitors sing different tune from grumpy columnist

A columnist in Out & About June 1 complained that JUCO music needs to “modernize,” but it’s the writer who is behind the times. JUCO music was expanded and updated some time ago, and current hits are added every year.

 

Apparently the writer hasn’t attended a JUCO game in a long time, because his information is so badly out of date. The baseball song he hates so much hasn’t been played in years. And virtually all of the musical selections he suggests be played at JUCO had already been played earlier in the week.

As for his objections to the comic baseball routine “Who’s On First,” humor is certainly a matter of personal taste. But perhaps I can help the writer enjoy it more by pointing out that “Who” is the actual name of the player at first base. If you don’t go to baseball games, I can see how the routine is confusing and not amusing.

Apparently the writer wants to hear his favorite music — and only his favorite music — whenever he walks through the gate. That’s unreasonable and unrealistic. The solution for the writer’s expectations is a personal MP3 player and headphones. Everyone else can enjoy the variety of music intended to appeal to a wide range of preferences.

This year alone, you would have heard the crowd singing along to “Minnie the Moocher” by Cab Calloway, “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond and “Tonight, Tonight” by Hot Chelle Rae. That’s three different generations’ musical favorites and everyone seemed to enjoy them.

But the hard reality is that we’ll play nearly 1,200 songs before and during 19 games over eight days, and we simply can’t play only current releases, or only ‘60s music or only country tunes. We need a wide variety, not only to please a diverse crowd but also to avoid repeating the same songs over and over (except popular pitching-change songs).

With all the discussion of music, food, seating and other aspects of the game, let’s all keep in mind that the JUCO World Series is first and foremost a baseball tournament. The dozens and dozens of volunteers who work all week at the stadium want the fans to enjoy their experience, but the focus should always be on the 10 teams competing on the field. We are their hosts. Let’s keep our eye on the ball.

REFORD THEOBOLD

Grand Junction

 

Museum staff was a treasure during Cross Orchards event

On June 2, we had the privilege of hosting a benefit event at the Cross Orchards Living History Museum. We have hosted many events over the last few years, and never have we experienced the hospitality that Cross Orchards extended to us.

Kay Fiegel and the entire staff of the Museum of Western Colorado were gracious, professional and generous with their time and knowledge. Danny, the caretaker, and his entire family helped us organize, set up, manage and close the event.

We also want to thank members of the local business and arts community for their contributions. A big thank-you also goes out to the vendors, community members who attended the event and volunteers who worked so hard.

Mike Perry’s and Kay Fiegel’s staff and volunteers reflect their commitment to Mesa County. Thanks so much.

Let’s all get behind the Museum of Western Colorado and support this historical treasure.

JEANNETTE VANDUYN

DIANE RISSELL

SHARON WALKER

Grand Junction