Apples At Kitty Hawk
Wright Brothers Would Have Been Apples
Stars and Stripes
Nashville, TN
The FreshPoint Apples summer tour continued this week with a visit to the birthplace of human flight, Kitty Hawk, NC
The Apples were special guest of NASA as they walked in the footprints of history at the site of Orville and Wilbur's first flight that took place over 100 years ago. The Apples were joined by local dignitaries as the looked back at the history of the brothers who traveled to the Outer Banks of North Carolina from their home in Ohio in the fall of 1903 to prepare for the 12 second flight that would make the world smaller forever.
When asked to comment on the Wright Brother's, Apple Great and FHOF Don Bernitt was quick to say " no question about it, they would have been Apples. " Bernitt went on to point out that as a left hander with obvious grit and determination, Orville would "have made a heck of a lead off hitter." Bernitt also pointed out that photographs taken by the brothers during their run at human flight show Wilbur to be " strong as an ox and a perfect #4 hitter"
" Who knows " ruminated Bernitt as he strolled amongst the history at Kitty Hawk," maybe a trip like this will show some of our squad that if you put your mind to it nothing is impossible and with a little perseverance and hard work maybe that World Coed Softball Championship isn't that big a pipe dream."
" As I told anyone who would listen " continued Bernitt, " there are two types of pain, the pain of self discipline and the pain of regret. I hope by getting out and seeing what was accomplished by those who came before us that we will learn a lesson and focus on doing things that seem larger then ourselves."
As the mid-day sun scorched the fields of Kitty Hawk and the temperatures pushed into the 90's it became clear that the elements were getting to Bernitt when he paused to reflect on the irony that this week the Apples will also celebrate the anniversary of Neil Armstrong's first steps on the moon. Bernitt pointed out that like Or and Wil Wright, Armstrong was also from Ohio. " I'll remember it as long as I live" said Bernitt when he described his feelings as Armstrong stepped onto the moon and spoke the immortal words, " that's one small step for man,and.. How bout them Apples"
SEE RELATED PICTURES BELOW
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Awards Roll To Apples
Team And Individual Honors Accepted
Time Online
Nashville, TN
With the off season now in full swing, the 2007 FreshPoint Apples last night paused from their full slate of cross country public appearances to be recognized at a gala dinner and awards show held at the Nashville Four Seasons Resort and Hotel.
The show which was hosted by home run king Hank Aaron was broadcast nationally on CSPAN-Sports and included special appearances by Larry King, George Steinbrenner and Sandra Day O'Connor.
As has been the case following several past FreshPoint seasons, the Apples were recipients of both team and individual awards that were handed out by League Commissioner Sam Metz on behalf of the Granny White Coed Softball League.
For the second time in team history and the first time since 2004, the Apples gathered on stage to receive the League Championship trophy to recognize their perfect 10 - 0 regular season march through the league.
In addition to the team award, individual awards were also handed out to salute the performances of several Apples during the past season. " I'm touched, I really am " said Apple Out Fielder Patty Pender after nudging out teammates Brooke Byram,Robin Meadows and Fifi Milam to win the prestigious 'Female Defensive Player of the Year' award. Following Pender's award it was time to announce the 'Female Offensive Player of the Year' and as expected the award was given to First Baseman Christi Copous. "Without question I deserve this" said the modest Copous as she accepted the award.
The night then moved towards its climax and the always exciting awarding of the League MVP Award. Speculation leading into the evening was that it would in fact be a tight vote between Apple Veterans Keith Jenkins,Tony Byram,Greg Swafford and dynamic rookies Shane Alexander,Greg Treep and Rick Harmon.
After approaching the podium with trophy in hand, Commissioner Metz set off a thunderous standing ovation when he announced " It is my pleasure and distinct honor to award the 2007 League MVP trophy to Apple Great and FHOF Don Bernitt "
Once calm returned to the room Bernitt approached the microphone to address the gathered guest and media. "Although I will accept this award tonight, don't for a minute think I'm totally happy." Continued Bernitt, "I play for rings not trophy's and we fell short of our goal of a World Championship this season." Bernitt then added that although there may be a few new faces on the Apples next season he is confident the Apples will make another strong run at the title next year.
After Bernitt's acceptance speech the crowd was treated to a 11 minute movie titled '2007 Apples - The Year in Review' For fans unable to attend last nights event, the movie and presentation show will soon be available on DVD at any Blockbuster location.
With the post season award show now over there is but one thing left to be said..... How Bout the Apples!!
Team And Individual Honors Accepted
Time Online
Nashville, TN
With the off season now in full swing, the 2007 FreshPoint Apples last night paused from their full slate of cross country public appearances to be recognized at a gala dinner and awards show held at the Nashville Four Seasons Resort and Hotel.
The show which was hosted by home run king Hank Aaron was broadcast nationally on CSPAN-Sports and included special appearances by Larry King, George Steinbrenner and Sandra Day O'Connor.
As has been the case following several past FreshPoint seasons, the Apples were recipients of both team and individual awards that were handed out by League Commissioner Sam Metz on behalf of the Granny White Coed Softball League.
For the second time in team history and the first time since 2004, the Apples gathered on stage to receive the League Championship trophy to recognize their perfect 10 - 0 regular season march through the league.
In addition to the team award, individual awards were also handed out to salute the performances of several Apples during the past season. " I'm touched, I really am " said Apple Out Fielder Patty Pender after nudging out teammates Brooke Byram,Robin Meadows and Fifi Milam to win the prestigious 'Female Defensive Player of the Year' award. Following Pender's award it was time to announce the 'Female Offensive Player of the Year' and as expected the award was given to First Baseman Christi Copous. "Without question I deserve this" said the modest Copous as she accepted the award.
The night then moved towards its climax and the always exciting awarding of the League MVP Award. Speculation leading into the evening was that it would in fact be a tight vote between Apple Veterans Keith Jenkins,Tony Byram,Greg Swafford and dynamic rookies Shane Alexander,Greg Treep and Rick Harmon.
After approaching the podium with trophy in hand, Commissioner Metz set off a thunderous standing ovation when he announced " It is my pleasure and distinct honor to award the 2007 League MVP trophy to Apple Great and FHOF Don Bernitt "
Once calm returned to the room Bernitt approached the microphone to address the gathered guest and media. "Although I will accept this award tonight, don't for a minute think I'm totally happy." Continued Bernitt, "I play for rings not trophy's and we fell short of our goal of a World Championship this season." Bernitt then added that although there may be a few new faces on the Apples next season he is confident the Apples will make another strong run at the title next year.
After Bernitt's acceptance speech the crowd was treated to a 11 minute movie titled '2007 Apples - The Year in Review' For fans unable to attend last nights event, the movie and presentation show will soon be available on DVD at any Blockbuster location.
With the post season award show now over there is but one thing left to be said..... How Bout the Apples!!
Saturday, July 7, 2007
End Of An Era
Apples Training Facility Razed
MSNBC
Nashville, TN
As the bitter memories of their first round lost in the World Coed Softball Championship fade, the FreshPoint Apples this weekend closed another storied chapter in their illustrious history. Following a ten year run in nearby Germantown, the Apples joined a group of dedicated fans early Saturday morning to watch as demolition began on their now outdated training facility.
" I didn't expect it to be this emotional " said Apple Greg Swafford as he fought back tears following the first thrust of the wrecking ball into the third base dugout. " We've spent a lot of time and left a lot of blood and sweat on this diamond " added longtime Apple Christi Copous as she signed autographs for the fans who braved an early morning drizzle to witness the end of this Apple era.
" Yea, this is tough to watch " said Apple Patty Pender as crews began to remove the backstop and bleachers at the complex. " We can look at the bright side though " added Pender as she hinted about the new Apple Training Center that is currently being built at a still secret location somewhere in Middle Tennessee.
When asked to comment on the days events, Apple Great and FHOF Don Bernitt was somewhat reserved when he said " I really don't give a flip about this building. " Added Bernitt, " just give us a bat and a ball and we'll play in the middle of the street if we have to. "
As the demolition of the field began to move into high gear and before fans were ushered away, there was one final surprise in store for all those in attendance. In a move to preserve the memory of the complex, each Apple player and every fan on site were allowed to take a shovel onto the field to scoop up dirt and to cut out a piece of the outfield grass for transplanting at their homes.
" This means a lot to me and I promise you that it will be watered daily " said 2007 Rookie Greg Treep as he and fellow rookie Shane Alexander rolled up several square yards of turf along the left field fence. " I've got my white picket fence all ready " said Brooke Byram as she cut a swath of the Kentucky Bluegrass from the field.
In another Apple news bulletin, it was announced over the weekend that the Apples will be awarded their 2007 League Championship Trophy during a special ceremony to be held this coming Tuesday night at the Granny White Sports Complex.. The event is free and open to the public.
SEE FIELD DEMOLITION PHOTOS BELOW
Apples Training Facility Razed
MSNBC
Nashville, TN
As the bitter memories of their first round lost in the World Coed Softball Championship fade, the FreshPoint Apples this weekend closed another storied chapter in their illustrious history. Following a ten year run in nearby Germantown, the Apples joined a group of dedicated fans early Saturday morning to watch as demolition began on their now outdated training facility.
" I didn't expect it to be this emotional " said Apple Greg Swafford as he fought back tears following the first thrust of the wrecking ball into the third base dugout. " We've spent a lot of time and left a lot of blood and sweat on this diamond " added longtime Apple Christi Copous as she signed autographs for the fans who braved an early morning drizzle to witness the end of this Apple era.
" Yea, this is tough to watch " said Apple Patty Pender as crews began to remove the backstop and bleachers at the complex. " We can look at the bright side though " added Pender as she hinted about the new Apple Training Center that is currently being built at a still secret location somewhere in Middle Tennessee.
When asked to comment on the days events, Apple Great and FHOF Don Bernitt was somewhat reserved when he said " I really don't give a flip about this building. " Added Bernitt, " just give us a bat and a ball and we'll play in the middle of the street if we have to. "
As the demolition of the field began to move into high gear and before fans were ushered away, there was one final surprise in store for all those in attendance. In a move to preserve the memory of the complex, each Apple player and every fan on site were allowed to take a shovel onto the field to scoop up dirt and to cut out a piece of the outfield grass for transplanting at their homes.
" This means a lot to me and I promise you that it will be watered daily " said 2007 Rookie Greg Treep as he and fellow rookie Shane Alexander rolled up several square yards of turf along the left field fence. " I've got my white picket fence all ready " said Brooke Byram as she cut a swath of the Kentucky Bluegrass from the field.
In another Apple news bulletin, it was announced over the weekend that the Apples will be awarded their 2007 League Championship Trophy during a special ceremony to be held this coming Tuesday night at the Granny White Sports Complex.. The event is free and open to the public.
SEE FIELD DEMOLITION PHOTOS BELOW
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Apples Celebrate the 4th
Baseball, Hotdogs and Liquid Apple Pie
Murfreesboro Post
Nashville, TN
The FreshPoint Apples joined all of America in celebrating Independence Day yesterday and as is often the case when the Apples are out and about potential new players were identified and scouted.
The Apples were special guest of Celebrity Chef Peter Moret and his wife All - American long distance runner Kathy Box Moret at their secluded estate in Rutherford County. In the private VIP event, the Apples were treated to Chef Moret's secret recipes as they enjoyed an endless supply of ribs, chicken and all the fixins that traditionally are on display at 4th of July cookouts.
Following the enjoyment of the fine food, it was off to the volleyball court for a little exercise and good times for the party goers. During the course of the best 2 of 3 volleyball match it was quickly realized that perhaps there was a future Apple or two on the court. In an athletic display that could not go unnoticed, Ryan Jackson separated himself from the others and it quickly became evident that his performance caught the eye of Apple Great and FHOF Don Bernitt who was acting as honorary referee for the games. Jackson and Bernitt were seen talking later in the evening and it is being reported that Jackson was extended an offer to tryout for the Apples leading into the 2008 season.
As the blue sky of day gave way to the pitch black of night it was then time for a fireworks display that rivaled any show in America. However in an unfortunate turn of events the show was cut short when official bottle rocket lighter Darla Jackson was burned by an out of control rocket that led to her crying like a baby for ice and a cold beer to ease her pains. Following several minutes of First Aid it was decided that Jackson was in more pain then originally thought and it was at that moment that host Peter Moret came to the rescue. Without drawing attention to himself and in a stealth move that had to be seen to be believed, Moret magically appeared out of nowhere with old fashion mason jar filled with a substance that he would only identify as " Liquid Apple Pie " Although challenged repeatably, Moret refused to comment on the ingredients of the tasty concoction that was quickly passed around the crowd in an attempt to self muffle the ongoing cries of the wailing Jackson.
With calm restored the remaining guest gathered around a huge bonfire and the evening continued without further incidence for a short period. Again without notice Moret appeared with another mason jar filled with what can only be described as a clear liquid. After warning all smokers to put their matches and lighters aside, Moret began to pass around his " Tennessee Sipping Water " to all those who dared give it a try.
It was at this time that the clock stopped.
Baseball, Hotdogs and Liquid Apple Pie
Murfreesboro Post
Nashville, TN
The FreshPoint Apples joined all of America in celebrating Independence Day yesterday and as is often the case when the Apples are out and about potential new players were identified and scouted.
The Apples were special guest of Celebrity Chef Peter Moret and his wife All - American long distance runner Kathy Box Moret at their secluded estate in Rutherford County. In the private VIP event, the Apples were treated to Chef Moret's secret recipes as they enjoyed an endless supply of ribs, chicken and all the fixins that traditionally are on display at 4th of July cookouts.
Following the enjoyment of the fine food, it was off to the volleyball court for a little exercise and good times for the party goers. During the course of the best 2 of 3 volleyball match it was quickly realized that perhaps there was a future Apple or two on the court. In an athletic display that could not go unnoticed, Ryan Jackson separated himself from the others and it quickly became evident that his performance caught the eye of Apple Great and FHOF Don Bernitt who was acting as honorary referee for the games. Jackson and Bernitt were seen talking later in the evening and it is being reported that Jackson was extended an offer to tryout for the Apples leading into the 2008 season.
As the blue sky of day gave way to the pitch black of night it was then time for a fireworks display that rivaled any show in America. However in an unfortunate turn of events the show was cut short when official bottle rocket lighter Darla Jackson was burned by an out of control rocket that led to her crying like a baby for ice and a cold beer to ease her pains. Following several minutes of First Aid it was decided that Jackson was in more pain then originally thought and it was at that moment that host Peter Moret came to the rescue. Without drawing attention to himself and in a stealth move that had to be seen to be believed, Moret magically appeared out of nowhere with old fashion mason jar filled with a substance that he would only identify as " Liquid Apple Pie " Although challenged repeatably, Moret refused to comment on the ingredients of the tasty concoction that was quickly passed around the crowd in an attempt to self muffle the ongoing cries of the wailing Jackson.
With calm restored the remaining guest gathered around a huge bonfire and the evening continued without further incidence for a short period. Again without notice Moret appeared with another mason jar filled with what can only be described as a clear liquid. After warning all smokers to put their matches and lighters aside, Moret began to pass around his " Tennessee Sipping Water " to all those who dared give it a try.
It was at this time that the clock stopped.
Sunday, July 1, 2007
A Weekend With The Apples
Multi Sports And A Wedding..........
BBC
Nashville, TN
With the 2007 season now mostly a memory, the FreshPoint Apples cranked up their off season training and social schedules with a full slate of non softball athletics followed by a weekend ending wedding.
In the Second Annual FreshPoint Multi Sports Olympics, several Apple players were joined by front office staff and paying fans in a multi sports weekend to raise funds for a local Nashville charity.
The FP Olympics began Friday evening with a 9 hole golf tournament at a posh Nashville golf course which was won by team General Manager of Player Development Jeff Hall. Following the golf it was an early wake up call for Apples participating in the FP Bassmaster's fishing tournament held on Percy Priest Lake. Although the fish won the day a good time was had by all.
Sunday it was full throttle for the Apples with a 6:00 a.m. 3 mile fun run ( several Apples used the run as part of their conditioning schedule which will culminate at the Detroit Free Press Half Marathon in Oct ) Following the morning run it was off to the Greenways of Nashville for the FP Bi-Athalon, The event featured a 3 mile roller blading course and then a 10 mile bike ride.
After the FP Games came the partying as the Apples capped off the weekend with fireworks and a wedding. In a star studded event the Apples celebrated the marriage of Team Photographer Lisa Bean and Team Hitting Instructor Jeff Bailey. Said Bailey following the wedding ceremony " I never thought I'd meet a girl who I would give up golf for." The bride was all smiles as she told her new husband " I love you so much I have decided to take up golf so you can keep your clubs dear " With that fireworks exploded into the sky and the weekend came to a spectacular end.
As we head towards the dog days of summer there is no telling what is next for the Apples as they count down the days to the 2008 season. As the days pass about the only thing that we can be sure of is............ How bout them Apples
SEE ATTACHED PICTURES
Multi Sports And A Wedding..........
BBC
Nashville, TN
With the 2007 season now mostly a memory, the FreshPoint Apples cranked up their off season training and social schedules with a full slate of non softball athletics followed by a weekend ending wedding.
In the Second Annual FreshPoint Multi Sports Olympics, several Apple players were joined by front office staff and paying fans in a multi sports weekend to raise funds for a local Nashville charity.
The FP Olympics began Friday evening with a 9 hole golf tournament at a posh Nashville golf course which was won by team General Manager of Player Development Jeff Hall. Following the golf it was an early wake up call for Apples participating in the FP Bassmaster's fishing tournament held on Percy Priest Lake. Although the fish won the day a good time was had by all.
Sunday it was full throttle for the Apples with a 6:00 a.m. 3 mile fun run ( several Apples used the run as part of their conditioning schedule which will culminate at the Detroit Free Press Half Marathon in Oct ) Following the morning run it was off to the Greenways of Nashville for the FP Bi-Athalon, The event featured a 3 mile roller blading course and then a 10 mile bike ride.
After the FP Games came the partying as the Apples capped off the weekend with fireworks and a wedding. In a star studded event the Apples celebrated the marriage of Team Photographer Lisa Bean and Team Hitting Instructor Jeff Bailey. Said Bailey following the wedding ceremony " I never thought I'd meet a girl who I would give up golf for." The bride was all smiles as she told her new husband " I love you so much I have decided to take up golf so you can keep your clubs dear " With that fireworks exploded into the sky and the weekend came to a spectacular end.
As we head towards the dog days of summer there is no telling what is next for the Apples as they count down the days to the 2008 season. As the days pass about the only thing that we can be sure of is............ How bout them Apples
SEE ATTACHED PICTURES
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