Play Ball!

The West Barstow Board of Directors and myself gave "High Fives" to all the players after their names were announced during the ceremonies. I had the privilege of being the guest speaker and representing the City Of Barstow. Good Luck this season! Joe Little league plays ball By DAVID HELDRETH Staff Writer March 26, 2007 - 7:18AM Staff photo by David Heldreth Issac Saddler high fives West Barstow Little League board member Paul Knight during their opening day ceremonies on Saturday. BARSTOW - West Barstow Little League President Gary Vinson has been pulling double duty over the last week. Vinson, a BNSF employee, has put in countless hours at Foglesong Park over the last seven days. He left the park at 11 p.m. Friday night, only to return eight hours later to set up for WBLL's opening day. However Vinson is not alone in his dedication, his wife, kids and fellow board members have helped him along the way. "Today wasn't bad. It was the preparation that was a lot of work," Vinson said. "I probably put in more hours at the league than at my job this week. Today has gone good so far. It was a little bit scary because it's my first year but it went well. I think we got a good reception from the crowd." Although this is Vinson's first year as WBLL president it shouldn't take him long to settle in. Vinson grew up in Barstow and played for WBLL. His children now play little league and he has volunteered at the league over the last few years. Vinson said he knows most of the board members and coaches in the league from his time playing little league. If Vinson ever has a problem he can always call his friend and for mer WBLL President Jim McCall. McCall stepped down this year after six years as president of the league. McCall has also been involved with the league for the majority of his life. He played, umpired, coached, was a board member and finally president for the league during his years of service. The league presented Mc-Call with a plaque and called him to home plate to speak during the opening ceremonies. McCall said although he'll miss being as involved it's nice to take a break. "It's feels great to relax," McCall said. "No headaches or scheduling. I can just sit and enjoy a baseball game. I love this league. My heart will always be here at West Barstow. Going back to my playing days I've been here for almost 30 years. I'll always be here to help if they need me." WBLL honored American veterans during the ceremonies. Members of the Bruce Patterson Chapter 68 of the Disabled American Veterans presented the American flag during the Star Spangled Banner and pledge of allegiance. The league also recognized the 2006 11-12 year-old WBLL All-Star team for their postseason performance. The All-Stars took the District 49 championships before advancing to the divisional tournament last year. "It's quite an honor to come from such a small town and have the community rally around and support us," said Brian Ulibarri, coach of the 11-12 year old All-Star team. "The team accomplished a lot to get all the way to divisionals."