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Announcements:
 
NAWBL Commissioner Al Melanson Suffers Heart Attack Tuesday, February 26, 2008 For those who may not know, NAWBL Commissioner and friend of women’s baseball, Al Melanson, suffered a massive heart attack on Sunday, February 10, in Maine. He is being treated in intensive care at Maine Medical Center in Portland. A former Massachusetts State Trooper, Al became involved with women’s baseball in 2003 after Nick Lopardo agreed to sponsor the league. Lopardo and Melanson helped put women’s baseball on the map not only through sponsorship and dedication to the league but also through their support of the first USA Baseball sanctioned national team in 2004.In the early years, Nick and Al could be found in the press box announcing the ladies’ games or keeping score or even helping the baseball girls clean the stadium. As demands grew greater for the Spirit organization, Al took on a more “behind the scenes” role, which continued after he took on a new post at the Airport. As someone who can accomplish what others think is impossible, Al has always reminded me of Red from the Shawshank Redemption – “the guy who can get things” or rather the guy who can get things done in Al’s case. For those who know Al, you know what I mean! This is the man who insisted we could raise $20k in 5 weeks to help send the Lady Spirit to Japan - and defying all odds - we did. His tenacity, determination and positive lease on life is unmatchable. These qualities along with his dedication to the sport have greatly contributed to the advancement of women’s baseball and given countless girls and women an opportunity to play. And to Al, we thank you for all you have done for the sport and the players who play it. You have been many things to the ladies of the NAWBL : the eternal optimist, the disciplinarian, the travel agent extraodinaire, the fungo master, the announcer, the scorer, a fill-in umpire and most importantly a mentor to parents and players alike. We truly appreciate your countless contributions. The members of the NAWBL are wishing you a speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. You can send an e-mail greeting to Allen Melanson at this hospital website which will be delivered by hospital volunteers http://www.mmc.org/mmc_body.cfm?id=1174 or you can send a card toMaine Medical Center Patient Greetings c/o Volunteer Services Department Patient Allen Melanson 22 Bramhall Street Portland, Maine 04102 |