Well, 2009 has come to a close. I’d like to say 2009 was all green grass, blue skies and lots of baseball but we’ve had our ups and downs just like families everywhere. So, if for no other reason than to fill up some space (and add something new for my little corner), how about a look back at 2009.

Sadly 2009 was marked with losses throughout the year. It began as we mourned the passing of our beloved Joe Mausser. It was on October 4, 2007 when Joe collapsed from a stroke and was hospitalized. Generally confined to bed since that time Joe's condition at first seemed to improve but later deteriorated culminating with his passing on March 17.

Then we experienced another passing when in September, Dennis Martin lost the battle of his life and succumbed to lung cancer. Sometimes a thorn but always big hearted, Dennis was always there playing, rooting, watching and supporting his DTW family.

Losses were not just limited to immediate family as we saw the passing of Helen Wade, wife to our late brother Harry, and the fathers of Bruce Thomas and Fred Barry.

On a more happier note, we almost had something to celebrate in November as two of the three MSBL tournament teams made it to the playoff round in the 2009 World Series. The 55+ team even made it to the finals but unfortunately the ring was denied this fellowship once again. No matter though because the recruiting and practicing has already begun for next year.

A more festive celebration began March 7at its annual banquet and has continued all year, however, as this year DTW commemorated 25 years of baseball . The early days were strongly represented at the banquet by some of DTW’s Founders, its first Commissioner Tom Chandler and other charter members with such honored names as Oshay, Blonder, Peterkovich, Postal and yes even Veltz. The new generation was represented as well as Levinson, Fuentes, Pattison (Geoff that is) were there to help the seniors to their seats. And with each ball hit and each game played we continue to celebrate.

2009 saw some retirements from the playing ranks of our little fraternity but we saw new faces as well, all of which made our family continue to grow. So as we turn the page of the family calendar, here are best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2010 for us all. Happy New Year DTW and we’ll see you on the field.