7/10/08 A Glorious Fourth, Library Events, Street Party, Summer Baseball

I have to say that I’ve never met a Fourth of July in Ashland that I didn’t like. This 4th was the prettiest in recent memory, and the cool weather made everyone feel like sitting on the Arts and Activities’ lawn all day long. We cheered for the parade and had a great time tossing water balloons, spitting watermelon seeds, and running in the three-legged race. The Hanover Concert Band, and the Hanover Idols gave us sweet music all morning. Surely no one else could have had such a wonderful day.

Congratulations to the winners of the Apple Pie Contest! First place went to Rebecca Cunningham, second to Monique Pecora, and third to Gloria Ward. Kate Melson was the winner in the “11 and Under” category, and Mary Ann Harris was awarded the “Most Patriotic” prize.

This Friday, July 11, is Teen Movie Night at the Ashland Library. The movie lasts from 6 to 8 pm, and pizza will be provided by the Friends of the Ashland Library.

Next Tuesday, July 15, Curt Strutz, the Bassmeister, will be performing at the Library at 7pm. This family comedian will have you laughing and wanting to be the next volunteer to assist on stage. The show includes a “Bass Beauty Pageant”, smelling stinky stink-baits, “chumming” for kids, and how to build your own fishing pole.

Keep checking the Ashland 150 website to see how the party planning is progressing. The Hall of Fame Committee is accepting nominations of Ashland natives to be inducted into the Hall of Fame this October. If you know of someone (must be deceased) who ought to be included, send me an email to ashlandnews@gmail.com or call 310-5320.

We certainly needed all the rain we got on Sunday, and I’ve always enjoyed a good thunderstorm, but the front page of the Town of Ashland’s web site reminds us that it’s hurricane season. Hurricane Bertha is out there in the Atlantic as we speak trying to figure out which way to go. Have you got plenty of batteries for your flashlights? Visit www.nhc.noaa.gov to be informed and educated.

The second Street Party of the summer will be Saturday, July 19th behind the library from 6 to 10:30 pm. I’m sure that you all know by now how much fun this is. Come hungry and thirsty, dance to some great music by Premiere, and visit with the best neighbors anywhere. Tickets are $5 for adults, and children under 12 get in free with a paying adult. You can buy tickets at Cross Brothers, Ace Hardware, Princess Cleaners, and Train Town Toy and Hobby. Hope to see you there.

The recent news from Mudville was stellar! It was reported that on Saturday June 28th, the Ashland Little League All Stars won their first game in the District 5 (9 and 10 year olds) Tournament 4-2 over the Mechanicsville Nationals. It was their first win in the tournament in 5 years. Kipp Proffitt had an outstanding night as he pitched a complete game striking out 8 batters and walking none. He also contributed at the plate going 3 for 4. The defense played well all day with great defensive plays being turned in by outfielders Garrett Allen and Dylan Ross.

Unfortunately, Ashland lost their second game to a tough Tuckahoe American team 14-1.

In game three, Ashland held a lead heading into the bottom of the 5th inning but couldn't hold on as they fell 14-10 to Chesterfield Little League. Ashland was led offensively by Trey Inge, who went 4 for 4 with 2 runs batted in, Kipp Proffitt: 3 for 3 with 2 runs batted in and Eric O’Malley: 2 for 4 with 2 runs batted in.

Next up for the Ashland bunch is participation in the Ashland Little League 9 and 10 year old Invitational Tournament which will be held right here in town July 19 - 27th. Well done boys! You obviously have talent, and some good coaches. We’ll remember that for next summer. Call or email me with your Ashland news- 310-5320, or ashlandnews@gmail.com. Have a great week!