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Lost in a Dream with Mac & Colby
Something calls me to the Smokies on a regular basis. I'm sure it might be the relaxation, the fun of fly fishing, or the biodiversity that fills my spirit. I feel instantly connected and immersed with my environment there, and always head home feeling recharged and ready to take on my life. Then there are a few places in the park that are even more special. They give me a feeling that defy words, and can only be described as some sort of religious experience. These places are often virgin pockets of forest that have never been touched by man, and also tend to be in areas without trails nearby.
This forum has been very kind to me as it has linked me up with individuals who share the same passion of remote places, and allowed me to learn about many of them. Freddie Mize (FCfly) really took me under his wing when I was starting to fly fish, and opened up a whole other world to me to whom I am truly greatful. Since then I have tromped and tramped through some pretty remote place with Mac, Colby, Crockett, JayB, and even met NDuncan for the first time at 3 Forks. It nice to share these places with others who share this passion. Not only do you want to share these places for others to take in the beauty (and maybe some fishing), but selfishly also to know if my senses are working properly, to see if these places are as special as I think they are, or if I'm losing it.
Mac had contacted me about 6 months ago saying he would be in town Memorial Day weekend and we made plans to fish on Saturday. Our original destination was probably the hardest section of stream to fish in the park, but unfortunately with all the Spring rains the water was just too high and might have been a death sentence so we changed our destination. Being Memorial Day weekend also meant the park would be a zoo, and we would need to find water that was not appealing to most to insure we had fresh water.
Mac's brother Colby lives not to far from me in West Knoxville, so we met at his house where we would drive to meet Mac at the Cracker Barrel to load up on breakfast before heading to the mountain. We made a quick stop at the "Other" fly shop for a few choice flies and were off to the trailhead. Took a while for everyone to rig up, and a quick check of all the cars there were no Brookie plates or TU stickers so maybe we were safe
We hiked in slow, with plenty of "old man" breaks for Mac. We were chatting like a bunch of women, and made it through the trail part in no time. Since it was still early we put in 300 hundred yard below out original plan to add extra fishing for out day. I got a bit cocky and said first cast and we'll get one. While I was wrong about that it wasn't just a minute before I had my first fish to hand.
Buzz can you please clarify whether it just the first fish pic that is mandatory, or first pic of each species caught that day? Just in case, first Brookie
Just a few minutes into our original destination, I must have been feeling religious as I decided to baptize myself after making a leap of faith onto a rock that turned out to be coved with the super slimy stuff. Luckily Mac and Colby missed my move, but Mac looked up (probably from me cussing) to see me getting out of the water from my neck up. Luckily this time of the year this only meant ringing out clothes and staying in the sun and not a return to the car.
Refreshed from my baptism, I caught my best rainbow of the day. I call him "Bronze Bug Eye".
Mac wasn't doing too bad either
Macs best rainbow of the day
And in the water
It wasn't just rainbows there were plenty of these guys
Awesome pool after awesome pool
Will continue in next post
Last edited by duckypaddler; 05-26-2013 at 10:01 AM..
This pool was awesome minus the tree in the heart of the run
Mac felt up to the challenge and was rewarded
I wasn't doing too bad myself
While the fishing was good for me and Mac, for Colby the fishing was
Sneaky bastard creeping ahead of us
Colby's best rainbow of the day
Colby with his 10 7/8 prize fish of the day. A little skinny, but the biggest fish of the day (Don't let Mac tell you otherwise) for any of us
Mac was starting to wear out at this point. Tired and feeling defeated by his brother out fishing him, Mac needed to take a break
Pool after pool after pool. Boy I'm glad this place is remote or It would have MUCH more pressure
Colby was inspired by my earlier baptism and decided it was time for some stream side yoga. Notice Mac laughing his *** off in the background
Will continue
We continued our way upstream all the time hoping we would find the manway out.
Then I found the spot Crockett and I couldn't find on our way out last time. This time it was right on my waypoint. Trees that were down in river were even still there only shifted by high water. Today we would take the standard exit upstream.
Look plain as day today. Perfect pool after perfect pool
Plenty of these guys
This place just left everyone feeling great
The "Exit sign" we were looking for. Took 2 pictures to capture
Sweet relief - the manway
Getting to be not in good shape. Old broken limbs were only way to define trail in many places, and it took all 3 sets of eyes to keep us on track unless we were in the tunnel sections. Many hemlocks have fallen plus 10-15 other blow downs made for breaking our way through several places. Still better than more than a mile of stream walking.
Mac getting up close and personal with the rhodo
We soon exited the manway back on the stream and just several hundred yards from the trail out. Happy to be back in one piece and as Freddie says, "Glad to fish another day"
Just another great day with my fellow LRO forum members in a slice of heaven
Until next time (Monday)
Excellent report, sounds like a great trip. Thanks for sharing.
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Thats enough!!!!! I'm going fishing!!!
Thank you for the posts. I' m very happy to see that your are getting out so much this year. I promise to contribute more shortly.
Thank you for keeping it and paying it forward.
Great post again, and some really nice fish. That's my favorite place in the park, but I haven't been there for a while because of high water. Thanks for posting all the great pics, makes me want to start planning another trip down.
First fish. Always get a pic of the first fish. Now, if you're in a place that you might catch a slam, always get a pic of the first fish of each type. You don't have to post them if you catch one larger. Most of my trip reports are 50% fiction, so without proof, it sounded good, but didn't happen.
Excellent report. Makes me want to make some mac & cheese for lunch. That's a really cool pic of Colby casting.
My posts are worthless without pictures
Great report DP, looks like you had a good day. That's a great looking stream. Hope I can get up there before long.
Magical Trip
It was magical. Loved being out in the wild, hanging with great people, catching fish. What else is there to say? Thanks, James!
Very nice I am jealous. Looks like the water was at good level too.
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Cheats and Walkthroughs
Cheats and Walkthroughs
Kids, drugs are bad, mmmkay. That being said, there was an obvious influence on this week and its name is Quaaludes. But I digress, this week on Feedback, Blair Herter, Morgan Webb, Nikole Zivalich and Stephen Johnson talked about serious issues, like time travel, and EA shutting down servers for 14 games. If that news brings you down, then stick around for our discussion on MMOs. Morgan Webb stopped by Blizzard last week to check out WoW: Mists of Pandaria and she shares her impressions. Check it!
The AUDIO MP3 of this episode of FEEDBACK is available here: Right-click and Save.
- EA has announced they are shutting down servers that wll affect 14 games.
- Our MMO discussion started with some impressions on World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria. Naturally, the conversation migrated to rumors of The Elder Scrolls Online, a Elder Scrolls MMO.
- Since Feedback is all about giving "feedback" so we made sure to answer some of your questions too.
Man, this episode was trippy, huh. Leave a comment or two and let us know how you liked it!

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It has been more than a decade and a half since Wisconsin passed a law requiring all 17-year-olds be treated as adults in the justice system. The "Second Chance" Bill could reverse that.
Under the second chance bill, first-time nonviolent 17-year-old offenders would no longer be treated as adults in Wisconsin.
The La Crosse County Juvenile Justice Unit is currently serving about 150 kids.
While that number has steadily decreased in the last decade, the bill could soon change that, and the unit's supervisor, Mandy Bisek said it's a good thing.
"I think it would be worth it, to have the opportunity to serve these kids, and that's what they are," said Bisek.
The bill would would also make them eligible for the same rehabilitative services as any other juvenile.
"It's giving them that second chance of being served by a juvenile system, which can look into all the different risk areas that might make them more at risk for becoming a criminal," said Bisek.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke said there aren't many 17-year-olds currently coming through the county court system. For the ones that do, this bill gives them a chance to avoid a permanent criminal record.
"When someone has a criminal record, it can affect their employment, even though it's not supposed to, it might follow them into things like military (or) other careers, it might show up in certain places," said Gruenke.
Gruenke said the change could come at a price to taxpayers.
"It's a bad thing in that I'm sure the state's not going to be providing money for those services, so it's a little bit of a burden on the county system," said Gruenke.
If the bill passes, Bisek said she'd expect to serve about 80 more kids. With a tight budget and a big workload, she said it won't be easy, but it will be worth it.
"It's incredibly busy right now," said Bisek. "Our case workers are working very hard right now with the caseloads."
The bill has until next Thursday to gain enough support in order to be referred to a committee. So far, the bill has at least a dozen backers.
Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen said he doesn't support the bill because judges already have discretion in how they handle young offenders.
Wisconsin is one of 11 states where 17-year-olds are treated as adults.


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No end in sightNovember 09,2013
The debate over the morality or evil of American reliance on drones to target terrorists has been raging, unresolved, for some time now, and there is even dispute about the number of innocent civilians killed by these pilotless aircraft.
Recently the leader of the Taliban in Pakistan was killed by an American drone strike. That would be a win for our side, right? Well, as legendary humorist James Thurber once so famously wrote, dont count your boobies before theyre hatched. The Taliban are not exactly going into hiding on account of the loss of their leader.
The Taliban, a group of about 30 extremist factions operating from bases near the lawless border with Afghanistan, just elected Mullah Fazlullah to replace the slain leader, Hakimullah Mehsud, and there are good reasons not to expect any moderating of Taliban tactics.
Heres why: The most interesting and most distressing fact about Fazlullah is that hes the militant who ordered the killing of a 15-year-old Pakistani girl who was outspoken in advocating equal education rights for her countrys males and females.
Malala Yousafzai survived the attempted assassination and, after recovering in an British hospital, has become an international symbol for her cause. Last month she not only published her memoir and met President Obama in the White House, she also was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.
But none of that impressed the Taliban. A spokesman for Fazlullah declared that if she returned to Pakistan, or at least to her home in the Swat Valley, shed be shot again. These militants religious and political beliefs are fanatically held and unlikely to change.
Pakistani intelligence officials confirmed that Fazlullah was chosen by the Taliban shura, its governing organization, in the relatively lawless North Waziristan region. The two previous leaders were members of the Mehsud tribe of South Waziristan, another part of Pakistans extremist stronghold, so Fazlullahs election came as something of a surprise.
While it is related to the Afghan Taliban, the Pakistani Taliban operates on its own but has been known to send its fighters into Afghanistan. It also claimed responsibility for the attempted bombing of Times Square in 2010.
And thats why its leadership has been targeted by CIA-operated drones. Both Hakimullah Mehsud and his predecessor, Baitullah Mehsud, were killed by the U.S. drones.
The New York Times described Fazlullah as a militant leader of considerable notoriety with long experience in both battling the Pakistani government and negotiating with it. Politics there are complex, indeed.
Fazlullah became famous for his connection to an illegal radio station that broadcast jihadist propaganda across the Swat Valley in the northwest corner of the nation.
Before long, his followers had deposed the local government and introduced authoritarian rules that included public floggings, executions and the closure of girls schools in the valley. Fazlullah was also known for riding through the valley on a white horse.
But the Pakistani military, responding to widespread public dismay at Fazlullahs behavior, swept through the valley four years ago and drove Fazlullah and his troops from their bases. Since then, the Times reported, the Swat-based Taliban has been reduced to hit-and-run attacks
Their most infamous operation of recent years was the attempted assassination of Ms. Yousafzai who was shot in the head by a Taliban fighter as she returned from school in October 2012, the report continued.
Now, with Hakimulla Mehsuds death and Fazlullahs elevation to the top Taliban position in Pakistan, its not easy to see how the United States has gained anything in its quest to neutralize the militant movement in either Pakistan or Afghanistan.
In fact, the Taliban is using the death of their previous leader as a reason for stepping up their already bitter hatred of Western values in general and the United States in particular. Theres no end in sight to this ugly conflict.MORE IN EditorialsPhil Scott will take office next month after winning with a margin of 51.11 percent to 43. Full StoryIdeologues and partisans work from the outcome backward. Full StorySeventy-five years ago on Dec. 7, Japan launched its surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. Full Story
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ST. CLAIRSVILLE Ryker Anthony Hill, 23, of Martins Ferry, was arraigned Thursday before Belmont Common Pleas Court Judge John M. Solovan II.
Hill pleaded not guilty to one count unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, a felony of the fourth degree occurring May 1, 2010; two counts of attempted rape, felonies of the first and second degree occurring Aug. 1 and Sept. 1, 2012; two counts gross sexual imposition, a felony of the third degree occurring May 1, 2010 and June 1, 2011; and four counts pandering obscenity involving a minor, a felony of the fourth degree occurring May 1, 2010.
His status conference was set for Nov. 30, with plea agreement deadline Dec. 7 and trial Dec. 18 His bond of $100,000 was increased to $150,000.
During the arraignment, Steve Stickles represented Hill and Special Prosecutor Tom Hampton represented the state.
There was a brief debate over bond amount. Hampton asked that bond be raised to $250,000, noting that the added pandering counts have almost doubled the charges against Hill. Stickles asked for a reduction in bond. He asked Solovan to consider Hill's ties to the area and that he faces lower penalties since the original count carried a possibility of a life sentence.
The rape counts carry a sentence of five to 25 years and designation as a Tier 3 offender. The maximum sentence for the other charges combined is 19 years.
DeFrank can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com


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In Wis., no big deal to have a gun show at school
Gun culture runs so deep in Wisconsin that when a gun show is held in a school or church, almost no one bats an eye.
Gun shows are drawing increased scrutiny after the school shooting in Connecticut last year. But in Wisconsin it's business as usual.
One such show is coming up at a high school in Cornell, a small city in northwestern Wisconsin. School and town officials say they're not concerned because the show takes place Saturday and Sunday when the school is not in session. And they've received virtually no complaints.
However, one local resident is upset. David Hugh questions why the show can't be held during the summer, or at another venue. He says he didn't complain because it wouldn't make a difference.
Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Dear Members,
Keep in mind that Character Bashing is now prohibited. Making fun of certain characters/character pairings leads to a pointless thread filled with insults and general rule breaking.
Also, remember that Versus threads are allowed only in the Versus section.
Thank you, NarutoBase Staff
it was spiking up but his forehead protector restrain his hair
see the comparison of speed?? it was kishimoto who said it.
LIGHT is always faster than LIGHTNING
Last edited by BloodSeed; 10-06-2012 at 08:29 AM.
but since minato cant damage Raikage
Raikage>minato until kishimoto shows something!
does this also mean that sasuke is even or even faster than naruto when naruto is in that bijuu mode
bogard already closed the thread in the first post
how come it reached to hottest?
LoL.Minato >>> Raikage.A was killed back then if bee didnt save his as$. :rofl:
Raikage: "He avoided my full speed!"
OP: "Raikage wasn't going full speed against Minato?"
Sigh.. It doesn't even matter what is written in the Manga anymore. People will still debate that it is wrong.
Originally Posted by Ngylle
but since minato cant damage Raikage
Raikage>minato until kishimoto shows something!
lol minato cant damage raikage? :rofl: what are you smoking?
Originally Posted by Sexy Steel
here A uses v1 lightning amour, notice his hair is all-back.
same thing over here.
Then there is v2 look at the middle of the panel in the scan below
You see his hair spike up, and at this point, raikage's speed increased significantly (combined with shushin of course)
more scans
you see his hair is still spiked up because he is in v2 lightning amour, which is significantly faster then v1
But against minato we only saw him use v1 lightning amour
we also see here that minato just in a nick of time escapes A's punch, but with the enhanced speed of v2 would he have landed a hit on minato ? would minato's reflexes save him this time?
It can be said that A in the past did not have v2 which was why he was unable to land a hit but would he be able to if he had v2 ?
this is just my assumption no flaming allowed, *puts on flameproof jacket*
watch the anime where sauske fights the raikage. shee said "the raikage's speed and reflexes are on par with the fourth hokage's now" after he went v2................................................ .................................................. ......................................minato's by far the fastest shinobi, mate!!!
Ftg>raikage full speed
Enough said :-)
Originally Posted by Bogard
Raikage: "I'm the fastest shinobi now that the 4th has passed away"
Raikage: "He avoided my full speed?"
Raikage: "You're the second person to dodge my top full-speed" refering to Minato as the first one. He fought Sasuke before this moment, but didn't actually consider that Sasuke dodged his speed which means he didn't use his full speed at that moment against Sasuke
What u shd realise is that minato wasn't barely keeping up with A. He had his back turned on him. It wasnt a case of minato being 100% alert. The point all minato has to do is be aware of A, his ftg is instantaneous
Last edited by TrollingSage; 10-06-2012 at 12:42 PM.
Guys! It's pretty obvious what the thread maker wants to point out. Even if it's very clear what A said "HE AVOIDED MY FULL SPEED" the thread maker can't accept the fact that someone with an ordinary eye was able to react to the speed that even someone with a sharingan can't follow.
If Minato can avoid the speed of which the sharingan can't follow then how much more to those who have lesser speed than A and without sharingan? It would make Minato very deadly and the thread maker doesn't want that to happen because he is an Uchiha fanboy or shall I say a Minato hater. Pretty obvious to me dude so don't hide what you can't hide.
The manga prove you wrong and it was A who admitted that Minato was able to avoid his full speed yet you still want to give your own version just because of the hair? Look carefully at the pic below. Isn't that a spike hair?
Originally Posted by ForbiddenUzumaki
Ain't no Minato fanboy but you have to accept it, Minato was faster and A LOT smarter than A.
Minato > Raikage mid diff /thread
you cant go against Minato's speed he'll always be the fastest until someone else can actually teleport instantly
Now now what's next It wasn't A it was a clone??
Get a life! The Past Raikage has said that he avoided My full Speed and The Present Raikage said that I am the Fastest SINCE the 4th Hokage is no longer alive.
Please close this shit.
What point r u trying to prove in this thread?? The same could be said...It was back then....BACK THEN HE WAS NO MATCH AGAINST MINATO! learn to accept the fact that minato > A. Now that A has white hair and black back then because his power at that time he didnt have that much power. He wasnt at par with Minato and probably wouldnt have today itself if he was alive....who knows what minato would have developed in terms of various jutsus and techniques and chakra levels...just saying the facts.
Last edited by lenin; 10-06-2012 at 01:54 PM.
Really? really, really?
such a foolish thread
so you are disregarding what raikage said to naruto? raikage fought minato on various occasions, which means that he improved his speed each time he fought minato. What you showed is the first time raikage and minato meet. minato helped raikage improve his speed and even though raikage knew about the kunais and the marks, he still couldn't defeat minato's speed.
Take naruto for example. Naruto trained and trained to defeat sasuke. Naruto got better and better. The same thing happened with raikage. He trained and trained to defeat minato and what was the objective of the training. The objective for raikage was to prove who was fastest. After many attempts who won? minato won all of them to the point that led to raikage believe that no one would ever surpass him "acceptance". We all know that raikage is extremely hardheaded and for minato to force raikage into acceptance is something.
Maybe you should learn from raikage and just accept
Last edited by yondaimeminato; 10-06-2012 at 04:05 PM.
Originally Posted by Sandomen123
My bad minato has above average speed but isn't faster then A without teleporting Thts his reflexes are incredible but him and A have what looks to have same reflexes if it was just straight speed minato would've lost but teleporting I guess makes him faster
That's more than just "above average"....
Don't matter, he admitted Minato was faster.
Originally Posted by Bogard
Raikage: "I'm the fastest shinobi now that the 4th has passed away"
Raikage: "He avoided my full speed?"
Raikage: "You're the second person to dodge my top full-speed" refering to Minato as the first one. He fought Sasuke before this moment, but didn't actually consider that Sasuke dodged his speed which means he didn't use his full speed at that moment against Sasuke
great explaination dont need to really explain anything from that minato was the fastest idk why its so hard for people to just accept it every ninja has a certain ability they specialise in and minato's speed.....minato haters need to deal with it but good explanation +rep
No. Just because his hair spiked up a little in the back does not mean he was moving faster. Their is no version 2 of the raikages lightning armour, this was all for dramatic effect in his fight with Sasuke. Shout out to DBZ.
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With a population of 330,000 and a cost of living 23% below the national average, St. Louis is part big-city and part small-town. Known for its restaurants, sports and the famous Gateway Arch, St. Louis has a lot to offer those people looking for apartments to rent.
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Myron D. Tenney
Myron D. Tenney, 88, of Buckhannon, died Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013, at Davis Memorial Hospital in Elkins.
He was born May 16, 1924, in Buckhannon, a son of the late Robert Allen and Emma Jane Mills Tenney.
On June 5, 1946, he married Collene J. Miller, who preceded him in death on Oct. 2, 2006.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Delphis and Victor Tenney; and one sister, Loueda Tallman.
He is survived by three sons, Dennis Leo Tenney and wife, Chrystalyn, of Greenwood, S.C., Robert E. Tenney and wife, Arawana, of Sand Run, and William P. Tenney and wife, Connie R., of Buckhannon; one grandson, Robert Paul Tenney of Sand Run; two granddaughters, Lisa McCullough and husband, Eric, of Lumberport, and Bridget Walker and husband, Sean, of Chengdu, China; three great-granddaughters, Ashley McCullough of Lumberport, Lydia and Rachel Walker, both of Chengdu; two great-grandsons, Ethan and Caleb Walker, both of Chengdu; and two sisters, Alice Garnetta Gooden of Mt. Union and Lorraine Perry of Moundsville.
Mr. Tenney was a farmer and attended Nays Chapel.
Friends were received Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013, at Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home. A funeral service was held Sunday at the funeral home with the Rev. Ralph Miller officiating. Burial followed in the Mt. Union Church Cemetery in Tallmansville.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com.
Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.


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Author Archive
Cleveland Indians vs Boston Red Sox 4/16 Progressive Field
It was a decent day with rain in the forecast, but still I was first in line here.
Wait a second… that's not right. Now this is where I actually went.
It was a last minute idea and I went with ballhawks Rick, Ian and Hunter. I was tempted by the fact that I still wanted a Red Sox commemorative and hoped that this trip would end that.
As it turned out we got into Cleveland just in time to get tickets. This however is not how to deal with a customer clearly not knowing their policy.
Me: 'Could I please get a student ticket? I have my college I.D.'
Person behind the window: [reading slowly from a sheet] 'Haven't you read the sheet. This year to purchase student sections you have to go online to [insert site here] and buy them'.
What a jerk. Again, I clearly had no clue and people were already heading in. I had to spend the $12 I had for the cheapest ticket they had. Needless to say I was not pleased but I headed in and came up empty.
Obviously any Easter Eggs were gone so I went straight into snagging. There were not too many people there as the cold weather, threat of rain, weekday and general disinterest caused the low turnout [story of almost all of their season].
The Indians had more lefties than I remembered, and one hit one that got into a scrum between me and someone else. I came out on top for ball #1, and after a quick look tossed it to the kid.
Karma would come later when another lefty came up and would lift a fly ball that I tracked perfectly and caught in the glove. Pretty pleased to come up with ball #2 and I was ready for a good day.
As this happened, the Red Sox pitchers were warming up. I was getting excited as this was my only shot. All of a sudden it started to drizzle. The Indians though continued to hit. Once they were done, though the grounds crew came out and put the tarp it. The rain stopped after 10 minutes and it never was more than a drizzle. I was frustrated to say the least, especially after I heard how the Pirates had a home run derby between Jose Tabata and Michael McKenry during BP. That would have been fun to be a part of. At least I got to see a game, the Pirates got rained out. Still no Red Sox BP hurt a lot. I was looking forward to it.
In addition, the main seating bowl did not open as early as it did on the Friday/Saturday time, so I had to wait it out in one area. That stunk.
I decided to go over to the Red Sox bullpen to check for commemoratives but the coaches had already come in there by the time I got there and I knew my chances were slim.
Felix Doubront was the starter for Boston at this game and David Ross started at catcher instead of Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Ross is a former Pirate so that was kind of cool. Pedro Ciriaco also started at shortstop in this game. Pirates fan remember him for the frequent flier miles he got in 2011 traveling from place to place and never sticking anywhere.
Anyways, as Doubront was finishing up, he threw this weird curve that Ross could not handle. It bounced off his glove and out of the bullpen. It landed in my glove for ball #3. I inspected the ball and prayed for a commemorative but wound up disappointed. I asked if they wanted in back but Bullpen Coach Dana LeVangie said it was okay.
For those who do not notice the date of this entry, this was the day after the Boston bombings, another reason why I wanted to go to this game. I wanted to see how the Red Sox would do the day after such a tragic event. As always, the National Anthem was played and when it ended a firework went off. I have no idea if this is a tradition before every game in Cleveland, but in the moment it was in poor taste. The last thing the Red Sox needed to hear was another boom. Needless to say, I along with everyone in the Red Sox bullpen jumped.
After Doubront warmed up, I tried to get the attention of a Red Sox coach but it didn't work and I left the area. I was not pleased.
I also really wanted to purchase an Indians media guide but I had no money. I love collecting media guides as well and I was unable to add this one to the collection.
Our seats were in the high up bleacher area of left field. This was how you knew you were there.
In that area is a seat dedicated to Indians fan John Adams. I am not talking about the second US president, but a fan that brings a drum to the game. He was running a bit late but I got this picture with him.
As expected security was much tighter at this game. Want proof? Well here you go.
Ubaldo Jimenez started for the Indians and did not make it out of the second inning as the Red Sox scored seven runs winning 7-2. Ubaldo was booed off the mound.
It was Jackie Robinson Day and as the game ended Rick, Ian, Hunter and I all did speed pitch. Sadly our pitches were some of the fastest that day. Ian and I decided to pay tribute to Robbie [aka Scoonz] and wrote 'Thank You Based God' and '#SMTFO' by our names.
We then tried to sneak over to see if the umpires had any commemorative baseballs for Jackie Robinson Day but couldn't get there fast enough. It was unlikely anyways considering the umpire entrance and exit was protected.
The game itself was cold and boring. Ian decided to raise the roof to John Adams' drum beats. You could tell I was bored since I was laughing like a school girl. Here is a video of the fun.
Indians people also tossed t-shirts and one of the guys threw a shirt that without a glove I made a leaping catch on. The guy was surprised. It was a generic XL Indians shirt but still it looked like a football route and a touchdown. I'll take that.
After the game, we stayed for autographs and got Indians closer Chris Perez, second baseman Jason Kipnis as well as Bench Coach and former major leaguer Sandy Alomar Jr to sign.
All in all it was a long day but still fun and worthwhile. I hope to be back sometime this season.
Pirates vs Cincinnati Reds 4/12 PNC Park
This would be my only game of this series as the next day I had a press pass to cover for a news outlet and I despise most Sunday games.
This game was a nightmare from the start. I finally decided to get my season tickets and I went through the glass doors at 3:15 desperately trying to call my season ticket representative that was not picking up. Finally at 4 he came down and it was nice to talk to him. Still I had to wait for all of my tickets to print and I knew it was going to be tough. I was not going to be able to throw or anything. The wait was endless.
Finally at 4:20 I got my tickets and BP was spared for me, but the effect was taken. I had no time to get in my zone and I knew it was going to be a rough day.
I would get on the board during the Pirates portion of BP. Gaby Sanchez came up and hit an arching shot. I had a good play on it as a couple fans in front played it incorrectly. It was fading from me though, and I knew I had one shot at it as people were running in on it. Without looking, I flung my glove which was on the bottom left to the top right guessing the location. It looked like a hockey goalie trying to make a save out of position. I was able to grab the ball for ball #1 on the day. A lot of people seemed impressed.
I then went over to Jason Grilli to get him to sign the baseball. That was my main mission as one of my college professors had promised to give me $20 for my charity initiative if I got a Pirate to sign his baseball. I came through and got to talk to 'J Grills'
Pirates BP and all of Reds BP were dead for me. I just never got into it.
I knew how to get ball #2 and I was right as Reds first base coach Billy Hatcher again hooked me up. This was huge as this would be baseball #450 for my ballhawking career.
Ball #3 came from the man Euclides Rojas and was the ball A.J. Burnett used to warm up.
The Pirates won this game 6-5 and would sweep the series against the NL Central favorite.
I would ballhawk four days later but based on the weather forecast went somewhere else. Where did I go and how did I do? You'll have to read my next post.
Pirates vs Chicago Cubs 4/4 PNC Park
There was no BP and obviously being a day game the whole gate thing stunk again as I helplessly watched players warm up before the gates were set to open.
Fortunately pitchers were still throwing on the Pirates side and I floored it. Of course an overthrow came pretty quickly and Bullpen Coach and buddy Euclides Rojas was quick to hook me up for ball #1. Euclides seriously is the best.
That was it for the Pirates pitchers, but I did get a couple of nice pictures.
I took this game not so seriously as I wore a dressier shirt and jeans knowing there was no bp, but as I left an usher that I've been buddies with for a couple of season gave me ball #2.
I would get ball #3 from Euclides before the game in the usual spot as well. After that I hung out and waited for Scoonz who overslept so we could actually hang and enjoy the game.
The bottom of the ninth inning was a frustrating one as Carlos Marmol proved once again why he does not deserve to be in the majors, only to have the Pirates bailed him out. Even worse I perfectly predicted the Pedro Alvarez strikeout, Neil Walker double play combo that would end the game before it happened.
The Pirates had their troubles on the road too against the Los Angeles Dodgers before taking two of three against the Diamondbacks. What a terrible third game by the way.
Lastly, here is my BP session at the cages at PNC Park this past December. Unlike my last BP session, my swing was better. I had just studied for my law final too.
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4II6nHcm4s
Pirates vs Chicago Cubs 4/3 PNC Park
It finally was that time. A full batting practice and I was excited. I knew it was going to be cold outside but that would be fine. I was just hoping that it would all be worth it.
I got to the game around 3:45 and stretched a bit ready to go after another 45 minutes in the gym a day after five hours. Despite too much time in the gym, I was feeling fresh and ready to go. Unfortunately, the throwing session did not last long as both balls were overthrown into the water and it was not my doing.
I got into this game for free but still do not have a season ticket plan, so Ian Weir gets a shout out for getting me in.
My running was fine although my speed was down a bit due to the gym.
I have changed my strategy this year and will not hog the corner by the foul pole like I did last year. I think it makes my chances better and makes my range better.
While it was cold, I was only one to start batting practice with just one shirt- a short sleeve shirt. I was not going to be affected by the weather and went short sleeves for both teams BP.
There were no Easter Eggs but I saw a season ticket holder I talk to getting Mark Melancon's autograph, so I wanted to see if I could get him to sign my glove. Instead a ball bounced on to the warning track and when I had his attention I asked him for it. Other ballhawks asked him for the toss up but he had already told me it was mine so I snagged ball number one. Thanks Mark!
The ball was not an opening day commemorative. The rumor was that they would be floating around during BP, but they never showed up.
With that ball in my pocket, Russell Martin came up to the plate and he mashed a ball and it was going to be a scrum between myself and Nick. We both overplayed it, but my left hand just beat his glove for ball #2. I did tell Nick good hustle, he thanked me and we slapped gloves and moved on to the next snag.
Ball #3 came from a toss up from Jason Grilli, who says he is throwing up 'one ball to all of us and then you're on your own'. Hey I appreciated the help and shook his hand. When Scoonz and I just missed a homer, he asked us what happened. I told him, 'two words: anorexic Jew' and he was cracking up. In reality, I am up 18 pounds and in the best health of my life but I make fun of myself all of the time.
That was it for Pirates BP. I got nothing during Cubs BP because frankly it was the worst display I've ever seen. It was embarrassing. The fact this Pirates team lost twice to them is ridiculous.
The Pirates would win today behind a great pitching effort from Wandy Rodriguez but my day was not over.
Ballhawk Rick Sporcic joined me at the bullpen and as Wandy was throwing he told me that Rodriguez was using an Opening Day commemorative. When he was done, the man Euclides Rojas threw it up to me, but in a joking mood, Rick took a swipe at it. He had snagged two of them Monday at the opener.
I knew that this was my only shot and Rick backed off after the joke. Euclides and Herbie Andrade took what felt like an eternity. I went to this game just to get this ball and finally I asked Euclides for the ball. It was the first time I had actually asked him for a ball since the middle of last season. The result was ball number 4. But was it comemorative? Let's see.
Yeah baby! But something felt off. Oh wait, that's better:
It was really cold at this point but I stayed because it was $1 hot dog night.
I even had a cheering section.
Scoonz, Ian, Rick and I all stuck together in section 140, and I just missed the fifth inning toss up from Andrew McCutchen as he pointed to me with his glove but of course under threw it by a considerable amount.
The Pirates would win today and during the game, Scoonz and I decided to come back the next game with section 125 going for $6. There would be no BP on Thursday. How would I do? My next entry will let you know.
Pirates vs Chicago Cubs 4/1 PNC Park Opening Day
It was Opening Day and excitement was in the air, or was that snow? I'm still not quite sure.
I actually have not purchased a season ticket plan, yet despite a sell out, I got into this game for free. I had to go to the Rivers Casino to get my ticket, but now that I'm 21, I was allowed to go in. Naturally, I gave in to the temptation and played some blackjack to get me into the Opening Day spirit and I doubled my money leaving with $80. Not a bad start.
After some tailgating, I went into line and threw on the bridge. Then it was back into line where I started Dufnering, the pose modeled after something PGA Tour golfer Jason Dufner did in a community appearance at a school.
In case you could not tell, it was cold and it was snowing meaning no batting practice which stunk. Still I went in and did not find any Easter eggs which stunk but at least I got to pose with my buddy Randy Page better known as Big Yellow.
So with nothing to do, I went through the concourse area with Ian Weir and Scoonz and saw some cool things. Scoonz got four game balls in a grab bag which was cool to see. I was freezing at that point so we all recovered for a few minutes in the Pirates Clubhouse Store and then went separate ways.
I went to the bullpen in hopes of salvaging the day when I finally saw my buddy, Bullpen Coach Euclides Rojas. Euclides was great to me but we never got a chance to talk at the last game of the season because I came late, even when he left I never heard anything and I was concerned about how that would affect me this season.
He seemed excited to see me though as we did our traditional wave. Ian had joined me at that point and Nick and Erik were trying to salvage their days so they were in the area as well.
All of a sudden I heard 'catch' and I had this, ball number 1.
Take a wild guess who threw it up. If you guessed Rojas then you are right.
He also hooked up Ian during that time. Then I settled in to watch A.J. Burnett warm-up.
This also was my first chance to see Russell Martin.
While those two were warming up, I got a chance to catch up with Nick and also see Andrew McCutchen get his Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards.
When Burnett was done though Rojas had two baseballs and he tossed one to Nick and another one to me for ball number 2. Thanks Euclides!
As for the game, the Pirates offense laid an egg against starter Jeff Samardzija. Burnett had a nice outing however the two run homer he allowed to Anthony Rizzo is the one pitch he wants back.
Still it was a cold day and I did leave after the seventh inning stretch, so I unfortunately was unable to see the Pirates score in the ninth inning but come back short.
It was great to see so many familiar faces even though it was cold and the offense did not show up.
Not a bad day but there would be no baseball the next night and I would have to wait until Wednesday. Still I ended up doing five hours in the gym on my 'day off' in the hopes of snagging four baseballs on Wednesday to give me 445 snags on my career. You will have to read my next post to find out if I reached that goal and going an Opening Day Commemorative baseball, the ultimate goal of the series.
PNC Park Workout Day
Yes like last year, I am counting the baseballs I snagged during workout day. PNC Park ballhawks count these and the rational is that other ballhawks in other cities do the same and Home Run Derby snags count as well so here goes nothing.
It was a very cold day, and this was the first time I would see all of the PNC Park ballhawks.
I was the first to arrive and while I had to enter a different gate it was great to be back home.
I gave myself plenty of time to stretch. It was a cold day, but as the other ballhawks learned as the Opening Series dragged on, I did not care what the temperature was, I was going to wear what I felt would help me move best. Thankfully Colston would come right before the gates opened, so I went with just this in the 30 degree weather.
Reaction went from 'mad respect' to my buddy Pirates reliever Chris Leroux who I got to talk to later who said 'you're going to get hypothermia'. He thought I was nuts, and I can't blame him. For those who don't see, I am wearing a long sleeve performance Under Armour shirt, while everyone else bundled up in coats and up to three layers.
Eventually the ballhawks showed up and we all had our first official throwing session while dealing with the occasional rain drop. Even Colston joined in the session. My arm wasn't great but my location was fine and more importantly I was not dropping the throws.
When we went in I was trying to figure out what would be the best course of action. I saw Hector Rondon and Carlos Villanueva over on the first side and flanked by Erik Jabs and Robbie a.k.a. Scoonz we went over. Last year I was the first one to snag a ball thanks to Clint Hurdle but this year the honor went to Scoonz who just was closest to Villanueva. Villanueva was not responding to us. I figured the ball would go to Erik however Scoonz stuck his ground and I was jogging to the dugout in case it got that far. Oh well, glad to see Scoonz get on the board, he's going to turn a lot of heads this year with a great snagging season.
Don't feel too bad for me though, I would get on the board 10 minutes later. Two random Cubs people [not players] were throwing and when they were done, the one coach threw me a curve ball that I caught for ball number one. The person that threw it is on the right of this picture.
After that I was unable to get any more baseballs from any of the Cubs relievers. I was able to talk to Cubs Opening Day starter Jeff Samardzija, who would ultimately shut the Pirates down the next day. As a result, I got this.
First base coach Rick Sofield then did something I've never seen before. He took a bat and started hitting line drives as hard as he could off the wall and various angles to see what would happen. Apparently the players rolled their eyes, while the outfielders picked up the balls. When he came down to the first base line, I was honestly worried he would hit me. Then he decided to hit me one and I think to myself, I've got this and that I'd impress him by going barehanded.
He hits and I'm thinking 'I've got this, no big deal'. Then when the ball was halfway there I had a bad feeling and missed it. To give you an idea of how hard he hit it, the ball deflected off my hand and flew back on to the field. Despite the hit and cold weather it didn't hurt at all. For those asking, yes I should have gloved the ball but I was not thinking clearly. It was Workout Day for me too. Clearly I still needed to iron out some of the kinks.
Sofield jokingly gave me a hard time and Coach Dave Jauss seemed to feel sorry for me and said to me, 'lefty, here's a ball'. Perfect, thanks Mr. Jauss for ball number 2.
After laughing that one off I waited for BP to start. I got in a great position and quickly two fouls balls were hit and I snagged them for balls 3 and 4. The fourth snag was in a scrum and when I went back to my spot, someone else took it, and that alone would cost me four baseballs. Cutting my losses, I switched to a different location.
The move was to the third base side of foul territory and after a few minutes I quickly caught up with Leroux. We had a couple of conversations during the off-season. Chris told me he has really been working hard to get into the shape he was in before his injury last season. He is ready for this season and may surprise.
Regardless, he snagged a ball, saw me and made a goofy throw that I caught for ball number 5. Thanks Chris!
That would be all I got for Workout Day. It was great to experience the familiar sites, sounds, smells and even the people.
Still, the time for sentimentality was over as the next day was Opening Day, something I still believe should be a national holiday. There would not be batting practice so how would I do? Make sure you read my next post to find out.
5th Annual Pirates Awards and 2013 season prediction
This is way late but here is a run down of award winners based on last season:
MVP: Easily this goes to Andrew McCutchen. All the man did was lead the team, hit for some power, bat some guys in, nearly win the batting average race, get contract security, become even more involved in the community and finish third in MVP voting. Did I mention that the best is yet to come? A.J. Burnett finishes second.
LVP: I would say Rod Barajas here just because the Pirates made a big investment in him and he failed in pretty much every area. Yes the guy was great for the clubhouse and created the Zoltan 'Z' that became the team's theme, but he couldn't hit a lick and struggled to throw out runners.
Most Improved: I'll give it to Pedro Alvarez. Everyone was questioning if he was the answer and he put up a nice 30 homer season. There still are questions because he is streaky, but a job well done in 2012 for Alvarez. James McDonald likely would have won this award had he shown up in the second half.
Top Moment: As much as I've blasted the guy, it's Rod Barajas hitting the walk-off home run against the Washington Nationals. I remember where I was sitting when that happened and I will admit that I booed him but that first pitch fastball by Henry Rodriguez is history and as I said above was the berth of the Zoltan 'Z'.
Lowest Moment: Tough call but I would say the Atlanta Braves series at the end of the year. The crowds packed PNC Park and this team looked capable of breaking the streak and the Braves series made it official; the streak would turn 20 years. It was just things piling up again and it was a hard pill to swallow for Pirates fans.
Best Mid-season Acquisition: I'll give it to Wandy Rodriguez. Travis Snider had that great catch late in the season at Citi Field, but a hamstring injury hampered his power potential. To boot, Jose Tabata has come back and had a great spring meaning Snider's leash may be shorter. Wandy's strikeouts are down, but as the number two man in the rotation he will be that lefty in between A.J. Burnett and James McDonald. It helps that he is durable and went over 200 innings pitched last season.
Best broadcaster: I'll give it to Tim Neverett. Good voice and sound for the game. Bob Walk is too goofy for me when I want just the facts, Greg Brown is too excited, John Wehner's voice does not do it for me and Steve Blass is inconsistent for me. Oh and you can follow Neverett on Twitter @TimNeverett. Yes replacing Lanny Frattare is hard, but Neverett is holding his own.
Coaches of the Year: Well let's see. Clint Hurdle lost the team for a second year in a row, Jeff Banister does not impress me much, Luis Silverio and Nick Leyva not great with base paths, Ray Searage had tired arms, Euclides Rojas coached a bullpen that collapsed in the second half and Mark Strittmatter coached a catching tandem that could not throw anyone out. So who does that leave? Bill Mazeroski and Bill Virdon, that's who. They were 1-0 as coaches winning over the Twins before being forced to leave. That's a winning record in my book. As for worst coach, it's hard to pick just one.
As for a season prediction it's tough. I have this Pirates team finishing third but it will be tough. This team does not get to face the Astros 12 times a season with the switch to the AL, and they will have to find ways to get those wins. The Pirates have to take advantage early of the Cardinals and Brewers dealing with injuries. Yes this Pirates team has a lot of what ifs but I do think an 80-82 season is possible and ultimately what will happen.
Miss me?
I apologize for not updating, I have been busy as ever between journalism, school and other things.
I have literally been running all over the place working my butt off covering a lot of teams an balancing my school work.
I will try and update more throughout the week but will address the following with the post:
1. Am I ballhawking this season?
I do plan on ballhawking this season. I am planning on getting a 40 game plan although with various press coverages, there will likely be more of a limit. I also likely will take people to games. I expect this to be my last full fledged season but you never know things can always change.
2. What are my goals?
1. No injuries – Easier said than done really. I have been working hard this off-season and my stamina has definitely improved. I am spending 2 hours at least in the gym at least 4 times a week. The minor dings will come but just avoiding the serious stuff would be huge.
2. 200 balls– I expect my numbers to dip from last year so that will make this a goal I will try to reach. Plus the ballhawking competition in Pittsburgh is still the same, but I think almost everyone has gone to the lab and improved in the off-season. I am looking forward to what they will bring to the table.
3. More caught balls– I will still go for plenty of toss-ups but I do feel as though my speed is much more consistent and I am much more confident in my catching ability. I expect to catch more baseballs.
4. More giveaway baseballs– I typically gave away a ball a game after BP. Many of us Pittsburgh ballhawks give back and it's awesome to put a smile on someone's face.
5. Raise more money for charity– I intend to bring back snagging baseballs for charity. I probably did not handle it the right way last year and I hope to be more consistent/raise more money. As always, proceeds will go to The Children's Institute and you can pledge by donating for every baseball I snag, making a one time donation [as often as you'd like] or even on various items I will put up to bid. Your support would mean a lot and it would be great to send some nice money over.
6. Commemoratives– That darn Red Sox ball last year was all I missed out of the regularly used ones last season and I hope that changes, but just to snag more of those would be great.
7. Regardless of what happens have a smile on my face after every game– Sometimes it will be tough, and I've noticed I have become a lot more intense these past few months. The competitor in me has come out but regardless, this is friendly competition and I appreciate every snag that much more now. I am competitive but I take myself a lot less seriously than I did before.
I honestly did not miss baseball as much as I thought as I was constantly around sports whether it was volleyball, golf, college football, covering 70 college basketball games… you get the idea.
While I have been working out like crazy, I just got into baseball mode this week and I am more then ready to go. I expect to throw a couple of times before Workout Day Sunday and workout like crazy the rest of the way.
Hmm… what else? There is so much more to talk about, but I want to lay stuff out in entry. I definitely have some journalism stuff to blog, Pirates season awards, 2012 in review for me. Still I want to get this blog going again.
Pirates vs Atlanta Braves 10/2 & 10/3 PNC Park
I apologize for taking so long in between posts. I have six classes at Point Park this semester and as a junior in college I also have five beat writing jobs in addition to other responsibilities. This gave me no chance to update the blog, but at long last here is my post on the final series of the season for the Pirates.
October 2 was a Tuesday and I knew this was going to be quite possibly my last as a ballhawk. It could be my last batting practice ever as a ballhawk and quite possibly as a full-time ballhawk. As I type this I still am not sure what I will be doing for the 2013 season, but hopefully I will have some news sooner rather than later.
Back to the BP. I did the normal routine, I believe I lifted that day and then did the stretches and throwing. We then made the run in to PNC Park.
Knowing this may be my last BP ever, I let completely loose and pretty much danced for all of BP, amusing everyone.
I went with my usual strategy of hogging the end line and once again it failed. Believe me when I say that next season I will be changing up my strategies should I ballhawk.
I was fortunate to get ball #1 of the day from Chris Leroux. Leroux was about to throw the ball to someone else but when he saw me he changed course and threw the ball to me. Thanks Chris!
Chris and I got to have a nice hour long conversation since the season has ended and just got the chance to catch up. He is a great guy and he made a picture of us his profile picture. Whether I am interviewing you or in the stands, I hope to be able to keep this going.
Pirates BP was lacking which stunk, but it is what it is. The Braves were up next and I knew they were using baseballs last series at home with a special Chipper Jones commemorative logo to honor his final season. Chipper would not play in this game but would make a cameo in the season finale. My mission was to get one of those baseballs.
I asked a player and a few coaches and they told me that they were sorry but they did not have any.
"Heck I want one too," Bullpen Catcher Alan Butts told me.
I was glad Butts took the time to tell me. I was bummed out but I understood and it was worth a try.
Before I asked though, I got ball #2, a ball hit by Juan Francisco that I got to first.
That would be it for BP for me. Immediately after though, I texted Erik Jabs and Nick Pelescak, as I wanted a big three ballhawk pic in case this was it. These are the results:
As a warning, we goofed off on this last one:
I actually got to stay for a while with this one and I may have stayed the whole game, I don't remember.
Not much to report here. I had a class from 1-2:30 and I did not want to miss it twice, so instead I attended the class and then sprinted down to the game.
I made it just as my buddy Chris Leroux was mowing down the Braves hitters.
I wanted to try and get one last momento and I also figured this was when my ballhawking streak would end.
Well the Pirates lost the game, I got no momentos and the streak did indeed end.
I was glad the streak was over. If this is indeed it for me as a ballhawk, it provides the conclusion to the story and would allow me to comfortably step away. If it is not, this will make me hungrier to start a new streak next season. It was a great streak and I am appreciative that it happened, but all good things must come to an end and I am pleased to have as long of a streak as I did, especially considering I relied solely on tossups.
Of course I had to take my final picture of the season following the game:
The Braves would end up losing the wildcard game in controversial fashion and thus Chipper Jones retired. Here is his final at-bat as a major leaguer.
Now let's go over the goals I had this season:
1. Stay healthy/injury free- My health was so much better this year. Injuries happened including pulled groin due to dehydration and I was sick once or twice but not enough to hurt. I was plagued on and off with a back injury from mid-May thru the end of the season and I actually ballhawked the Braves series in pain. It still flares up now and then and hopefully I can get it fixed.
2. Attend at least 50 games- I attended 59 games including one in Cleveland and one in Baltimore.
3. Raise more money for the Children's Institute- I raised right around $400 once again this year and am appreciative to all those who helped.
4. Snag commemorative[s] baseball[s]- This one went pretty well. I got all of the major ones except the Red Sox. I consider that a success.
5. Off-season training- I started that well last season and now this off-season, I have been working very hard in the gym. Every other day is a two hour fullbody workout and I love it. I also have been bringing back basketball. My muscles aren't straight lines anymore and the hard work is paying off. No pills, supplements, protein shakes, etc.. I want to do this naturally and right. I never thought when I started in March that I could do one handed push-ups with a 12 pound medicine ball.
6. Advocate 4:30 gate opening- That one worked pretty well. I wonder how all of us would have done without it. I am pleased I spoke up on behalf of the season ticket holder family.
7. Control the emotions- When I started working out, I lost on this one. Lots of people just interfere when balls are meant for you and it's frustrating. When my strategy did not pan out when I was an idiot I would kick myself, but that is how it goes. I was pretty stone faced all season.
8. Catch more baseballs on the fly- I finally figured this one out a bit. When Erik and Nick caught one and Bullpen Catcher Herbie Andrade saw, I got sarcastic and opened my arms, rolled my eyes and looked skyward. They all laughed. Herbie talked about it all night. I got really good at one hoppers down the first base line.
9. Signatures- I got a couple of good ones including Troy Tulowitzki. I kept the Jim Thome one for myself and I got Alfonso Soriano and Starlin Castro to sign a ball during a late night autograph run with ballhawks Rick Sporcic and Ian Weir.
10. Have fun- I mean come on, I dougied my way through the whole season with ballhawk Robbie. I should get into the music a bit more and depending on the day I will, but I had fun even if I don't show it much.
11. Snag 206 balls this season- Well I had 228 snags on the season becoming a top 10 ballhawk. It is great to go out that way should this be it. This was the big one and I am pleased that I got this done.
Lastly as promised here is some more PNC Park BP music, perhaps the last time you see this.
The season definitely had its ups and downs. I am extremely bummed the Pirates blew it down the stretch, but happy that I finally finished a season strong physically and mentally stronger than when I started the season, the first time I can ever say that. I got fatigued before but at the end of the season, I could have gone another 60 games.
Since I don't know if this is it for me as a ballhawk, my next post will be on some of my memories and what I will take out of the experience. I hope to have that post up soon.
Pirates vs Reds 9/28-9/30 PNC Park
The return of some images could make this a more fun although the entry will already be long if all goes according to plan.
First before I get into the games. Here are some pics from earlier in the month.
1. During a BP earlier in the month, the sprinklers came on in the infield. A few of the pitchers cheered and it was just a funny thing to watch.
2. 200th baseball
3. What? Clint Hurdle looks a little too excited here
4. In the final game of the Milwaukee series I found out it was PNC ballhawk Jim Saylor's last game of the season so I had to take a picture with him.
I was pumped coming into this series knowing I needed one snag to reach my season goal and obviously an additional baseball to surpass it.
I ran into the ballpark first and thought I saw a baseball coming around the corner but it was a mirage.
I then saw Pirates closer Joel Hanrahan and said hello and he said a 'hi Zac' to me.
I decided to start off the game with a different strategy staying closer to the bullpen instead of far left field.
Immediately I saw Joel Hanrahan chasing down a baseball and then he looked up and saw me clearly getting the baseball if he didn't get it. He pulled up and the ball went over to the fence where I beat ballhawk Ian Weir for ball #1 and the goal was officially met. Thanks Joel, it was especially great to reach my goal because it was you who helped me out.
That would sadly be it for Pirates BP and technically Pirates baseball, but more on that later.
During Reds BP I saw Todd Frazier in left field. He tossed the ball way low and my re-strained back failed to reach it. Todd Frazier made like Chris Berman and the Monday Night Countdown crew and let out a 'come on man' before re-tossing it to me, giving me ball #2. Frazier would then run in to take his cuts.
This is the same Frazier that saved a life earlier in the season, and I guess he saved my ballhawking life for the day as my head was back in the game. Now I was at 209 snags on the season which meant I had surpassed my goal.
I thought I saw a ball on the third base line at 5:30 and I was first over in the tunnel so that was ball #3.
I then played the first base side and there were two cute kids next to me and it was the final hitting group so Miguel Cairo was playing the first base line and he tossed me balls #4 and 5 in a 10 minute period to give to the kids. One required a back hand reach up much like a first baseman scooping up a short hop.
Ball #6 was the final snag of the day and it was of course from the man Euclides Rojas.
As for the game. I honestly was unaware that Homer Bailey was in the process of a no-hitter. I was in the Hall of Fame Club getting my picture taken with former American Idol contestant Scott MacIntyre.
The no-hitter itself wasn't surprising. Justin Verlander should have no-hit this team in May and this was karma. Plus Bailey had two shutouts before this no-no. I was pleased to witness that no-hitter and wish him and the Reds well in the playoffs, what an accomplishment to see in person.
Now I am going to switch it up. For each game, I will link up a youtube video of a song that us ballhawks hear in BP. Here is one right now [profanity is in this video]
I was at Point Park all morning and early afternoon covering volleyball for my school paper and now I needed a little bit of food to pump me up for ballhawking.
What I did not say in the previous entry was that my right leg was in real pain. While pursuing a ball in BP I banged my right knee cap really hard off the edge of a bleacher. Three years ago, that knee cap actually required physical therapy and I felt this pain for the rest of the homestand as because of the PT it takes longer for an injury there to heal.
Any ways, I was ready to eat but not too much so here was what I went with.
Now I was ready. I struggled through a throwing session trying to put weight on my knee when throwing and it was not that great on my end, but at least it wasn't harming my running.
I searched first for easter eggs in left field and came up empty. I knew that was my last chance to play first base so I took advantage but the run to first base was a little slower than normal.
On my jog, I saw Neal Huntington by the Pirates clubhouse. He has had a tough end of the season as the media blew his comment dumbing down the fans out of proportion. I was tempted to say a few words but with Erik Jabs in front of me, I could not.
Thru two Pirates groups, I was seriously questioning my decision. Hishinori Takahashi's translator was in right and he is not fan friendly with baseballs so I rolled my eyes as some annoying old grumpy man continued talking to himself and continued to be a pain in the ass as he has been all season.
Finally, Jose Tabata hit a one hopper that I was able to easily catch in my glove for ball #1.
I then got another ball hit that was well over my head and between myself and Scrooge. The race was on and I was not letting that scumbag get that ball, so I got it for ball #2.
Things then got a bit easier for me as the Reds came out and Todd Frazier mixed it up with me as we both laughed. He is such a cool guy, the kind of guy you would want to take a drink with.
Mat Latos came out and threw with one of the two Reds bullpen catchers. He randomly dropped a ball that rolled closer to the wheelchair area. I eyed it for a minute before the duh factor set it. I took a look at it and then asked the coach if they needed it. No was the response. Easy ball #3.
Latos then went back pretty deep on his throwing, probably right by the warning track or at least the very far grass and threw the ball as hard as he could. I could immediately tell it was going over the bullpen catcher's head. I gauged where it was going to land and I was right. I was in the general area right before the barrier on the wheelchair section and made the catch. It was the hardest ball I have ever caught. I felt nothing. The bullpen catcher asked for it back and I gave it back. Ball #4.
Ballhawks Erik and Robbie then came up and I got ball #5 from an usher I befriended last year. We tried together to get Homer Bailey's attention but he never responded.
Balls #6-8 went this way. Six was a toss up from an unidentified Red on the first base side. Ball #7 was hit shortly after on the first base side. Eight was a hit ball in center field.
That was it for BP, but I still had a chance to get double digits and I knew it.
Ball #9 came from Herbie Andrade. He played his usual trick of tossing up the ball high enough to make fans go for it but low enough that they wouldn't get it. He tossed the baseball right to me.
Double digits became a reality as Kyle McPherson tossed up his baseball right after warming up.
In short, I love when the Reds come to town, especially weekends. Double digits happen.
Captain Morgan was also in attendance for the game taking pics with fans. Since I am not 21 yet, I asked if I could just take a pic of him and he was game and appreciated my honesty.
Last thing for this entry is another PNC Park BP song.
This was a Sunday game but it was Fan Appreciation Day and a chance to take pictures with the players.
Despite many delays where I live due to The Great Race, I got to the ballpark about 20 minutes before it opened.
Now about the pictures. The bandwagoners were in full force and the whole thing was horribly organized, but I still got a few pics.
Now onto the player pictures:
I would get one baseball from Rojas at this game. Here are a couple more pictures.
Here is the BP song:
That is just about it for this entry, although there were still two Braves games for me before the season and possibly my ballhawking career came to a close. How would I do, you'll have to see to find out.


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Review: 'John Dies At The End' Creates An Askew World Deliciously Off Balance And Wonderfully Insane
It was interesting and difficult to put a category on this review for "John Dies At The End" as part of the fun of the film is its unbridled genre hopping acid trip like surrealism. It's no surprise that this one comes from Don Coscarelli, the mind behind "Phantasm" and "Bubba Ho-Tep", who all but prides himself on exploring themes and visuals that live way outside the realm of normal. But "John Dies At The End" goes even beyond that, creating an askew world that's deliciously off balance and wonderfully insane – unbridled Coscarelli is a sight to behold.
All surrounding a black living drug known as Soy Sauce, "John Dies At The End" just in terms of sheer story complexity is almost impossible to describe here. (Plus do you really want me to divulge the goodies within?!) I can give you an overview of the characters that inhabit this baby. John and David are two college dropouts with some serious destiny ahead of them, a little inquisitive journalism in the form of Paul Giamatti's Arnie Blondestone, some ass kicking psychic prowess via Clancy Brown's Dr. Albert Marconi and even a little reality check ala the sassy Glynn Turman as a hard-nosed detective. (Also a little Doug Jones always helps!)
Look, is you're a fan of Don Coscarelli and his twisted visions your ship has come in. All of is previous work appears to have been a warm up for the insane nature of this outing. Plus there's hints of former work like the otherworldly vibe of "Phantasm," the comedic tone of "Bubba Ho-Tep" and even fantasy elements of "The Beastmaster" that all invade and heighten the experience here. There's something to be said for throwing away all logic and making a chaotic cinematic surprise, but through Coscarelli John never stray from a story the audience can and wants to follow – sense out of nonsensical.
John is not going to be a film for everyone as the themes and dreams within are reserved only for those with an open mind. Places you've never gone, sights you've never seen and even some meat monster action for the kiddies. "John Dies At The End" feels like Lynch, Solondz, and Cronenberg wrapped in a single deep fried egg roll - but the soy dipping sauce is pure Coscarelli.
Title: "John Dies At The End"
Stars: 5
Genre: Drama/Horror/Thriller
Cast: Chase Williamson, Rob Mayes, Paul Giamatti
Director: Don Coscarelli
Rating: R
Running Time: 99 Minutes
Release Company: Magnet Releasing
Website: http://www.magnetreleasing.com/johndiesattheend/


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What is in this article?:
- Amid questions on funding, new bioenergy projects announced
- New projects
- USDA announces four new Biomass Crop Assistance Program projects.
- Agriculture Secretary Vilsack queried on funding issues.
The Obama administration continues to push bioenergy projects as a way to revitalize rural America and reduce U.S. dependency on foreign sources of energy.
On Tuesday morning, the USDA unveiled four new Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP) project areas in six states. This, according to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, is to "expand the availability of non-food crops to be used in the manufacturing of liquid biofuels. The four project areas set aside acres in California, Kansas, Montana, Oklahoma, Oregon and Washington for the production of renewable energy crops. According to industry estimates, these projects will create more than 3,400 jobs in the biorefinery, agriculture and supporting sectors. Once fully functional (they will) produce more than 2 million gallons of biofuels annually when full production levels are achieved."
The BCAP program, Vilsack continued "has allowed financial incentives to interested farmers, ranchers and forested landowners for establishing and producing non-food energy crops for conversion to heat, power, and biobased products as well as advanced biofuels. … The Renewable Fuel Standard calls for 36 billion gallons biofuels by 2022. Because corn starch ethanol is limited to 15 billion, that means more than 2 billion gallons of renewable fuels must be produced in just 10 years from feedstocks other than corn starch.
"That's why BCAP is important and today's announcement is important. This is the only federal program that ensures sufficient biomass will be available to reduce America's reliance on foreign oil." (For more, see BCAP at deltafarmpress.com.)
Following Tuesday's announcement, Vilsack was peppered with questions regarding the future funding of the programs. He admitted that "at this time, Congress has essentially reduced their commitment to BCAP. At this point, there is no assurance that in 2012 we'll have additional resources."
Any dip in funding would be short-sighted, said Vilsack, because the program sites "are beginning to create jobs, encourage farmers to take a look at non-productive land creating another income source, and it's certainly consistent with everyone's desire to reduce our reliance on foreign oil. … I'd hope, (despite) the fact of constrained resources, that we don't lose sight of the opportunity to invest and grow the economy."
Even without the support of Congress, Vilsack repeatedly said the current projects are funded. "The funding is (available), which is why we're making the announcements. We'll continue to make announcements based on the resources available.
"The funding is there to basically, fully pay the responsibilities and contracts entered into under these projects…
"When we enter into a (long-term) contract — both in terms of resources to put the crop in the ground and then maintenance — we essentially have the resources to pay the full amount of the contract. We aren't making a commitment dependent on subsequent appropriations."
As for the current desire by Congress to swing a hatchet at government spending, "we understand the importance and necessity of reducing budgets. Right now, we're dealing with a fiscal budget based on a continuing resolution that reduced our discretionary spending by, roughly, 10 percent…
"We understand the House has called for additional, deeper cuts. Our hope is we'll be given enough time to manage this properly."


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With Henry Winkler, better known a generation of TV viewers as "The Fonz," celebrating his 70th birthday on Friday, take a look at what he and the rest of the cast of the classic sitcom "Happy Days" are up to today.
Ron Howard, already known to television audiences as Opie Taylor from "The Andy Griffith Show," played teenager Richie Cunningham, landing the role after portraying the character in a 1972 segment on the comedic anthology TV series "Love, American Style." He was one of three actors, along with Marion Ross and Anson Williams, who reprised their roles from the segment, which served as a pilot for "Happy Days," in the actual show.
Howard also appeared in the movies "The Music Man," "American Graffiti" and "The Shootist," the latter during his run on "Happy Days." He made his directorial debut with the 1977 comedy "Grand Theft Auto" and left "Happy Days" in 1980 to focus on directing. His character was written out of the show as joining the U.S. Army. Howard returned to the series for a two-part episode in 1983 in which his character returns home from the Army and again in 1984 for the series' finale.
Howard broke through as a director with 1982's "Night Shift," featuring Michael Keaton, Shelley Long and Henry Winkler. His films include "Splash," "Cocoon," "Apollo 13," "A Beautiful Mind," "Cinderella Man," "The Da Vinci Code" and "Frost/Nixon." He's won two Oscars -- for directing and producing "A Beautiful Mind" -- and was also nominated in the same two categories for "Frost/Nixon." His most recent film was the 2013 Formula One racing movie "Rush." He's also the co-chairman, along with his producing partner Brian Grazer, of Imagine Entertainment, which has produced movies such as "Friday Night Lights" and "8 Mile" and TV series including "24," "Felicity" and "Arrested Development," the last of which Howard also serves as narrator and has appeared playing a fictional version of himself.
Henry Winkler played Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli, a cool, motorcycle-riding "greaser." While he was initially a minor character, he eventually became a breakout character. He was especially known for his catchphrase "Aaaay!," delivered with two thumbs up.
After "Happy Days," Winkler spent the rest of the 1980s serving as executive producer of the TV show "MacGyver." With an uncredited role as a high school principal in 1996's "Scream," he began to take on more acting roles, going on to appear in movies such as "The Waterboy," "Little Nicky," "Holes," "Click" and "Here Comes the Boom." He's also had regular roles on the TV comedies "Arrested Development," "Royal Pains," "Children's Hospital" and "Parks and Recreation."
Marion Ross played Marion "Mrs. C" Cunningham, Richie Cunningham's mother and a traditional homemaker. She was the only character whom Fonzie allowed to call him by his real first name, Arthur, which she always did affectionately.
Ross had already been an established actress of 20 years when she landed her role in "Happy Days." She appeared in several roles on "The Love Boat," eventually landing a recurring role as Emily Hayward, the woman that married Captain Merill Stubing. She's also had roles in the TV series "Brooklyn Bridge," "That '70s Show," "Touched by an Angel," "The Drew Carey Show," "Gilmore Girls" and "Brothers & Sisters." Most recently she's had cameos on the TV series "Chasing Life" and "Hot in Cleveland," and appeared in the 2014 TV movies "Signed, Sealed, Delivered for Christmas" and "A Perfect Christmas List."
Tom Bosley played Howard "Mr. C" Cunningham, Marion's wife and the father of Richie and his sister Joanie. Howard owned a hardware store called Cunningham's Hardware and was a Leopard Lodge member and a family man. Besides Fonzie, he was the only other character to appear in all 255 episodes of the series.
Bosley had recurring roles on "The Love Boat" and "Murder, She Wrote" and starred in the title role on "The Father Dowling Mysteries." Over the years he had cameos on TV series such as "Walker, Texas Ranger," "ER," "One Tree Hill" and "That '70s Show." His last role came in the 2010 Jennifer Lopez romantic-comedy "The Back-up Plan" (pictured). He died of heart failure at age 83 on Oct. 19, 2010.
Erin Moran played Joanie Cunningham, the daughter of Howard and Marion, and Richie's younger sister. Moran continued the role in 1982 in the short-lived spin-off series "Joanie Loves Chachi," alongside Scott Baio. After "Joanie Loves Chachi" was cancelled in 1983, she returned to "Happy Days" for its final season.
Since "Happy Days," Moran has had cameos on the TV shows "The Love Boat," "Murder, She Wrote" and "Diagnosis Murder." In 2003, she played herself in the movie "Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star." She also appeared in the 2010 indie comedy "Not Another B Movie" and on the reality TV shows "Celebrity Fit Club" in 2008 and in "Celebrity Ghost Stories" in 2012.
Donny Most played Ralph Malph, one of Richie's best friends. Ralph left with Richie after the 1979-80 season to join the Army. The character returned as a guest star for a two-part episode during the show's final season. Although he was never seen again, he was later mentioned as having left to continue college to become an optometrist like his father.
Most has mostly done television acting since "Happy Days" ended. He has guest-starred on such shows as "Charles in Charge," "Diagnosis Murder," "Yes, Dear," "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch" and "Star Trek: Voyager." In 1999, he had a role in Ron Howard's "EDtv," and has also appeared in "The Great Buck Howard" and the 2010 indie drama "Bones." He most recently appeared in the TV series "Men of a Certain Age," had a recurring role in "Glee," and starred in the 2014 low-budget action-comedy "Campin' Buddies."
Anson Williams played Warren "Potsie" Weber, another of Richie's friends. A talented singer, the character became more dimwitted as the show progressed. Potsie remained with the show after Richie and Ralph joined the Army, however, he was seen less frequently.
Williams has had only a handful of acting roles since "Happy Days," including cameos on the TV shows "Boy Meets World," "Baywatch," "Son of the Beach" and "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch." Instead, he has focused on directing television, including episodes of "SeaQuest DSV," "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," "Star Trek: Voyager," "Melrose Place," "Beverly Hills, 90210," "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch," "Charmed" and "Lizzie McGuire." Since 2008, he has focused on directing the ABC Family series "The Secret Life of the American Teenager."
Scott Baio played Charles "Chachi" Arcola, Fonzie's younger cousin. Chachi first appeared in the show's fifth season and eventually dated Joanie Cunningham. Like Moran, he left the show for the short-lived spin-off series "Joanie Loves Chachi," but returned after the show was cancelled. Chachi married Joanie in the show's finale.
Baio also starred in the title role in the sitcom "Charles in Charge" and has had recurring roles on the television shows "Diagnosis Murder," "Veronica's Closet" and "Arrested Development." In addition to directing various television shows, Baio also starred in the 2007 reality series "Scott Baio is 45 … and Single." Since 2012, he has starred in the Nickelodeon sitcom "See Dad Run."
Pat Morita played Matsuo "Arnold" Takahashi, the owner of Arnold's Drive-In, joining the show three episodes into the third season. Supposedly the character acquired his nickname when he purchased the restaurant and people assumed it was named after him. Morita left the show after one season to appear in his own sitcom, the short-lived "Mr. T and Tina," the first Asian-American sitcom on network TV. Morita returned to the character for two guest appearances in 1977 and 1979 before returning as a recurring character in 1982.
Morita was also known for his Oscar-nominated role as Mr. Miyagi in 1984's "The Karate Kid," a role he reprised in three sequels. He died of natural causes at age 73 on Nov. 24, 2005.
After Arnold's departure following season three, Al Molinaro joined the cast as Al Delvecchio, the new owner/cook of the drive-in. Al later married Chachi's mother, Louisa, becoming Chachi's stepfather and Fonzie's Uncle. The character left the show in 1982 to appear on "Joanie Loves Chachi," but returned in three later episodes of "Happy Days."
After "Happy Days," Molinaro starred in the short-lived sitcom "The Family Man" in 1990-91. He and his "Happy Days" co-star Anson Williams opened a chain of diners in the Midwest called Big Al's in the late 1980s. He retired from acting in 1992 at age 73, but continued to appear in TV commercials until the early 2000s. He also appeared in Weezer's music video for the 1994 song "Buddy Holly" (pictured), which was set in Arnold's Drive-In. He died at age 96 on Oct. 30, 2015, of complications from an infected gallbladder.
Ted McGinley joined the show in 1980 after Ron Howard left, playing Richie's cousin Roger Phillips, a teacher and eventual principal who worked with Fonzie at Patton High School.
"Happy Days" was McGinley's first acting job after starting out as a model. After the show ended, he appeared in "Revenge of the Nerds" playing Stan Gable, the head of the jock-run Alpha Beta fraternity. He reprised the role in the third and fourth movies in the franchise, both produced for TV. He also had regular roles on "The Love Boat" and "Dynasty" and played the role of Jefferson D'Arcy on "Married… with Children" from 1991 to 1997. He also had recurring roles on the TV shows "Sports Night" and "The West Wing" and was a regular on "Hope & Faith" from 2003 to 2006. Most recently he's had cameos on TV shows such as "The Mentalist," "Mad Men" and "Castle" and appeared in the Christian-themed movies "Redeemed" and "Do You Believe?"
Cathy Silvers played Jenny Piccalo, Joanie's boy-crazy best friend. The character was mentioned often in early episodes of the series, but did not appear in person until 1980. Silvers appeared in more than 50 episodes overall through 1983, returning as a guest star for the series finale in 1984.
Silvers has since had guest spots on TV shows such as "The Love Boat," "Punky Brewster," "Wings" and "New York Daze." She also was a regular in the short-lived 1980s sitcom "Foley Square" and has had a minor role in the 1996 Steve Martin comedy "Sgt. Bilko," based off the character originated by her father, comedian Phil Silvers, on the 1950s sitcom "The Phil Silvers Show." In 2007, she released her autobiography "Happy Days Healthy Living."
Lynda Goodfriend played Lori Beth Allen, Richie's girlfriend and later his wife. She appeared in more than 70 episodes between 1977 and 1982, returning as a guest star in the final season. Goodfriend went on to play bit parts in movies directed by "Happy Days" creator Garry Marshall, including "Pretty Woman," "Exit to Eden," "Nothing in Common" and "Beaches." She is currently a talent manager and is the acting chair at the New York Film Academy.
Linda Purl played two different roles on "Happy Days," Richie's occasional girlfriend Gloria in season two of the show and Ashley Pfister, a divorced mother who becomes Fonzie's steady girlfriend Ashley eight seasons later. Heather O'Rourke played her daughter, Heather Pfister.
Purl became better known for portraying Ben Matlock's daughter Charlene Matlock in season one of "Matlock" in 1986-87. She also starred in the short-lived TV shows "Under Cover" and "Robin's Hoods" in the early 1990s. More recently, she's had recurring roles on "True Blood" (pictured), "Homeland" and "Reckless," and played Pam Beesly's mother on the sitcom "The Office," starting with the season six episode "Niagara" in late 2009.
By the time she appeared in "Happy Days," O'Rourke was already well known for her role in the June 1982 box office hit "Poltergeist," in which she memorably uttered "They're here!" before being abducted by ghosts. She had a variety of roles after "Happy Days," but was best known for reprising her "Poltergeist" role in two sequels. O'Rourke, seen here in 1988's "Poltergeist III," died at the age of 12 of cardiac arrest and septic shock caused by a misdiagnosed intestinal stenosis in February 1988.
Crystal Bernard played K.C. Cunningham, Howard's niece, in 15 episodes in the show's 10th season in 1982-83. K.C. moved in with the Cunninghams after Joanie left for Chicago.
Bernard went on to star in the sitcoms "It's a Living" from 1985 to 1989 and "Wings" from 1990 to 1997. Since "Wings" she has appeared mostly in a variety of TV movies and small independent movies, including 2007's "Welcome to Paradise" (pictured) and the 2008 Lifetime movie "Grave Misconduct," the most recent credits to her name.
While for most of the show's run, the Cunninghams were shown to have only two children, Richie and Joanie, they initially had another son, Chuck Cunningham, originally played by Gavan O'Herlihy (left) in seven episodes during the first season. Chuck, the oldest son in the Cunningham household, was rarely seen and disappeared without explanation in the second season (after a couple episodes where he was played by Randolph Roberts, pictured on the right). As the show went along, later episodes were scripted as if the character had simply never existed. In the series' finale, Howard comments that he is proud of his "two kids."
O'Herlihy, a Dublin, Ireland, native, has mostly been cast in villainous or antagonistic roles over the course of his acting career, including in "Death Wish 3," "Never Say Never Again" and "Superman III." He also played the heroic Airk Thaughbaer in Ron Howard's 1988 movie "Willow" and Dan Suggs in the miniseries "Lonesome Dove." He most recently appeared in the straight-to-video 2010 horror sequel "The Descent: Part 2" (pictured).
Suzi Quatro played Leather Tuscadero, who appeared in seven episodes over the show's fifth and sixth seasons. She was a former juvenile delinquent who formed her own girl group named Leather Tuscadero and the Suedes.
Before her stint on "Happy Days," Quatro had found success a rock singer-songwriter and bassist, scoring a string of hits in Europe in Australia. After her role on the show, she saw her duet "Stumblin' In" with Chris Norman reach No. 4 in the United States in 1979. Although she has only a handful of acting roles since "Happy Days," all of them on British TV series, she remains a rock star today, continuing to perform worldwide and having sold more than 50 million records, including her most recent, 2011's "In the Spotlight."
Leather Tuscadero was also the sister of Pinky Tuscadero, a traveling demolition derby driver and ex-girlfriend of Fonzie's who was played by Roz Kelly in three episodes of the show's fourth season. Pinky was originally intended to become Fonzie's long-time girlfriend and a regular character, but differences with Henry Winkler, other cast members and the show's producers changed those plans. Kelly hasn't acted since a bit role in 1983 on "Trapper John, M.D.," but made headlines for her legal problems in 2000, receiving probation after pleading no contest to a 1998 incident in which she fired a 12-gauge shotgun into the living room window of a neighbor's house after a car alarm woke her up. The disabled actress ended up serving 120 days in jail after pleading no contest later in 2000 to violating that probation by hitting a man with her cane.
Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams played recurring characters Laverne DeFazio and Shirley Feeney in three episodes during the third season, which led to the two starring in the spin-off series "Laverne & Shirley." They later returned to "Happy Days" for guest appearances in episodes during the sixth and seventh seasons.
Marshall, who still occasionally acts, has mostly won acclaim since "Laverne & Shirley" as a director, helming such films as "Big," "A League of Their Own" and "The Preacher's Wife." She most recently directed two episodes of the Showtime series "United States of Tara." Apart from "Laverne & Shirley," Williams has appeared on several TV shows over the years, from "Hope & Faith" and "7th Heaven" to "8 Simple Rules" and "Law & Order: SVU." The two also appeared together in 2013 on the Nickelodeon sitcom "Sam & Cat" (pictured).
After "Laverne & Shirley," "Happy Days" spawned its second spin-off in "Mork & Mindy." The show got its start thanks to a guest appearance by Robin Williams in the 1978 episode "My Favorite Orkan," in which the alien Mork wants to take Richie back to his home planet of Ork with him to study earthlings. Williams returned as the character during the height of popularity of "Mork & Mindy" in the 1979 episode "Mork Returns."
After "Mork & Mindy," Williams went on to star in movies such as "Popeye," "Good Morning, Vietnam," "Dead Poets Society," "The Fisher King," "Mrs. Doubtfire," "The Birdcage," "Good Will Hunting" and "Night at the Museum." More known for his manic brand of comedy, he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his dramatic role in "Good Will Hunting" and has also been nominated for another three Oscars. He returned to TV in 2013 with the sitcom "The Crazy Ones," co-starring with Sarah Michelle Gellar, although the series was canceled after one season. The comedian, who had struggled with addiction and depression over his life, committed suicide at age 63 on Aug. 11, 2014.
"Happy Days" creator Garry Marshall, the brother of Penny Marshall, went on to direct several hit films, including "Nothing in Common," "Beaches," "Pretty Woman," "Runaway Bride," "The Princess Diaries" and its sequel, "Valentine's Day" and "New Year's Eve." Marshall has also acted in several projects, including his sister's film "A League of Their Own" and in his own "Valentine's Day," and on TV in shows such as "Murphy Brown," "Monk," "Brothers & Sisters," "ER," "According to Jim" and "Louie."
The show's cast has reunited many times over the years, including a 1992 reunion special broadcast on ABC. They also reunited for another special in 2005.
Here (from left) Garry Marshall, Tom Bosley, Marion Ross, Erin Moran, Henry Winkler and Anson Williams gather to celebrate the unveiling of Ross' star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2001.
The show also featured several then unknown actors on the verge of stardom, including Crispin Glover, who played a troublesome high school student known as "Roach" in 1983, two years before appearing in the blockbuster "Back to the Future."
Tom Hanks appeared in a 1982 episode playing a character seeking revenge on Fonzie for pushing him off a swing when the two of them were in third grade. The cameo came toward the end of the run of Hank's sitcom "Bosom Buddies."
Cheryl Ladd, who would become a star thanks to "Charlie's Angels," appeared in a 1974 episode playing the part of Cindy Shea, a Hollywood starlet Richie wins a date with.
Five years before playing bailiff Bull Shannon on "Night Court," Richard Moll appeared in the two-part 1979 episode "Fonzie's Funeral."
Morgan Fairchild, who would become more famous in the 1980s thanks to her roles on the TV series "Flamingo Road" and "Falcon Crest," appeared in a 1977 episode of "Happy Days" playing Cynthia Holmes, a snobby rich girl who aims to make Fonzie look foolish at a country club party.
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