Most recent update: 03/29/2021

Biography   -  Photos

 

CINDY SLAUGHTERBECK ACCEPTING HALL OF FAME PLAQUE IN HONOR OF STEVE SLAUGHTERBECK AS PAST PRESIDENT OF THE SWCD

 

 

Wayne Walter (brother) is excepting Joan Wheeler's plaque.

 

 

Pam Nurnberger

 

Arlene McCague came to Florida 2002 to live in Palmetto. She played golf for 5 years and then thanks to Emma Searcy switched to this wonderful game of shuffleboard. She kept a record of all her partners since day one. She thanks all her partners for helping her to be inducted into the SWCD HOF.

 

My father introduced me to shuffleboard when we would visit them in Florida during our times of vacation. I fell in love with the game. Larry Mardis introduced me to tournament play by getting me my first partner. Dave Minnich who later took me under his wing became my mentor who taught me so much about the game. I still go to him for advice. I’m thankful that my wife Judy who put up with me gone so much. Now she is playing today. I am thankful for all my partners who have helped attain this honor. Dwayne Cross

 

Faren Vandegrift

 

Nancy Sclafani

 

This is Dona Dunn from Battle Creek , MI she was president of our   Battle Creek SHUFFLE board club for 19 straight  years. Her and her deceased husband Earl were instrumental  in the running of the B.C. SHUFFLE club.  Donna is 91 yrs. young and she and Earl were inducted into the FL. Southwest HOF this yr.  Donna didn't  want  a jacket or anything but a plaque....Ron Nurnberger brought the District plaque from FL.

 

Lois Wegner – a retired teacher from Wisconsin was convinced by her husband Al to give shuffling a try. (He said she would love the sport and the folks even more).  Nineteen years later she is honored to play in her 4th Masters.  She is the first shuffle player from Tri-Par to earn the necessary 200 points necessary to be inducted into the Southwest District Hall of Fame.

 

Where it all began. Erika and I drove May 1961 from Detroit to Florida on 301 or 41, (I-75 was not build yet). We  ended up  at the Alden Hotel in St. Pete Fl. It was our honeymoon. We watched this couple play shuffleboard on one court beside the hotel. I asked, can we join you, they said “sure”. The rest is history. Around 1965 my neighbor and I build one court in his backyard in Windsor On. We got together with a few friends and neighbors formed a club and called it “Bouffard Shuffleboard club”. (Name of our street). You had to belong to any Shuffleboard club to be eligible to play in a Canadian Tournament.  My neighbor and I played in our first CNSA Singles Tournament 1983 in Tilbury On. Glen Peltier was the Tournament Director then. (I took 2nd in the Main). Erika at the time was not interested in the game; she got the bug much later. We retired in 2000 after selling our Plastic Injection Mold Company. Buying a home in Imperial Lakes we started taking the game more serious. A shuffle friend in ILE told me to go and play in Bradenton. He said that’s where the “big bucks are”. He read John Brown’s article every week. I joined BSC that year and soon after Erika did too. In 2005 I became a Pro and Erika in 2006. January 23, 2006 Erika played with Lorena Waters in Avon Park. After winning that Tournament Stan McCormack approached Erika and asked her: “Have you ever considered playing at the ISA Tournaments”? She asked “what is that”? He explained what it was and again the rest is history. We played in 8 ISA Tournaments and one Inaugural. We had a lot of fun playing and visiting Russia, Australia, Germany, US and Canada. Meeting and making new friends worldwide. Erika and I are very thankful to all the partners we had to help us reach this goal at the SWCD HOF.  Erika and Peter Berg

 

Anna Nuttall (no Biography available)

 

Ron was a teacher, coach, Principal and Superintendent of Schools in Michigan. He also hosted his own High School Sports radio show each Saturday morning in Caro, MI for several years and did 'play by play' broadcasts of local high school football & basketball games. And for two years hosted a local cable TV sports show called "Coaches Corner." Ron was the President of the SWCD from 2014-17. He and wife Pam feel blessed to be part of the SWCD 'shuffleboard family.'

 

Paul Knepper (no Biography available)

 

Larry Taylor (no Biography available)

 

Mike and JoyceMarquis are natives of New Hampshire. They have been shuffling snowbirds since 2003. They have been shuffleboard volunteers since then. Joyce was secretary at Colony Cove, treasurer for the Southwest District and is currently treasurer for the Bradenton Shuffleboard Club. Mike has been President of Colony Cove, Southwest Coast District and is currently involved in the Florida Southwest Coast nonprofit organization.

 

Shirley Jones grew up in the small town of Lisbon Maine. She attended Lisbon High School where she met her first love. They got married after High School graduation. Shirley worked in an office while her husband finished teachers college. Two years later their son Jim was born and daughter Pam arrived five years later. Shirley was a stay at home mom until both of her children were in school. Soon after she worked as bank teller and loan officer in a local bank. She retired after 25 years when her husband of 37 years passed away. Shirley married for the second time. Fred was also alone after losing his wife. They both started shuffling in our district as Amateurs and consequently became Pros. Shirley accumulated well over 200 points in our SWCD. Shirley and Fred were both Vice Presidents of the BSC. Shirley also held the position as President for two years. She had to stop playing shuffleboard when Fred became legally blind and she took care of him for 5 years. Fred passed away January 18, 2016 he will be missed by all who knew him.

 

The attractive young woman in this photo learned to swim at  the age of 4 in a Spruce Pond at Allenstown while attending a 4 H Camp at the age of 10.  From this beginning she became a lifeguard until one day her swimming ability caught the attention of a Water Follies agent from Boston .  Twenty five swimmers tried out and Ann was one of 12 selected by Sam Snyder’s Water’s Follies.  The 12 selected attended modeling school and began the hectic life of a professional swimmer.  As Ann described it at a later time: “I gave up the serenity of Kingston for the baggage smashing life of a touring professional swimmer.”   By the time Ann was 18 she had traveled in excess of 8,600 miles.  Yes, we have every reason to believe that is Ann Hersom in the Bathing Suit!!  We are not just sure who sent her the telegram!!! lol Congratulations Ann on your induction into the Hall of Fame, Special Award Category. THE SHUFFLER, 2007 01 14.

 

Larry Mardis did not winter in Florida the last 2 seasons because he took care of his mom Nena in Ohio until she passed away. (1923-2018) Here is his story. Nena was born in 1923 in the Ukraine which was controlled by the Soviet Union at the time. She was born during a severe food shortage which lasted during her early years. Millions starved in the Ukraine and southern Russia at that time. As a matter of fact, her mom was killed by robbers who stole her cow on the way to market when Nena was only 11 years old. She had 1 sister and 1 brother that she adored.  When the Germans invaded the Soviet Union in 1940, they used the Blitzkrieg through the Ukraine. Nena  at age 16 was away from her little country village studying in Kiev when the Germans conducted their surprise invasion. Nena was not able to get home and was captured as were all teenagers by the Germans to work in factories and concentration camps. Stalin told the Ukranian youth that it was better to die with cyanide pills than to help the enemy. Pills were passed out in the schools. Many young Ukranians chose life instead and went by train quickly to Germany. Nena's favorite aunt reached her in Kiev before Nena departed and told her to remember to pray to God daily, and He will keep you safe and kissed her goodbye. Nena prayed everyday before she went to sleep all through the horrible war and every night before bed for the rest of her life. She lived through the bombings and killings in the camps and factories and was safe at the end of the war. She had been moved to the Western side of Germany where the Americans were arriving. She missed her home so much and wanted to see her little sister and brother and father, not knowing what had happened to them in the German invasion and again when the Soviets pushed the Germans back out. Their home had been shelled in the fighting. She was packing to leave for home when a kind German officer who had befriended her warned that he had heard Stalin was shooting all returning youth for treason. And he did, every one. Nena then hesitated and  stayed in Germany for a few extra months and met the love of her life. She married her husband in Germany and stayed during his tour of duty. They came home to her husband's home in Alabama. and lived a short while. Jobs were few in the South at that time, and her husband began to travel and work as a welder on interstate bridges which were booming in the fifties and sixties. I-75 work brought them to West Chester in 1958. She always loved West Chester and with her husband's hard work and her hard work, they built their home where she lived for close to 60 years. Nena was always ambitious and went to Beauty School in 1959 and graduated with her broken English. She had a beauty shop built in her house and became the first beautician in West Chester in the  early 1960's. She cared for all the original families of West Chester. Her husband died when he was only 54 years old, and she worked hard and helped her only son get through college and become her joy.   She could never send mail to the Soviet Union in the 50's and early 60's and know anything about her family after the war. Then by miracle  Soviet leader Kruschev started allowing mail to flow between the countries and she found out that her brother and little sister and father were alive.  The real miracle came in 1989 when the wall came crumbling down and the Soviet Union collapsed. In 1990 she bought tickets for her brother and sister to come and stay with her for 3 weeks. Almost 50 years had past and she thought she would never see them. They thought she had died in the war in Germany. There have never been so many tears of happiness shed and stories told of their lives in those three weeks about the past 50 years of their lives.   She retired from her shop but continued to care for elderly people in their homes and up into her 80's cared for the sick and loved to work in her garden and yard. She enjoyed her life to the end and fought hard everyday to live  and died at almost 95 years old.   Reverend.......please use what suits your time schedule.  Don't worry about those troublesome allergy symptoms......we all have them this time of the year.    Thank you so much for helping my mom.      Larry Mardis

 

Judy Taylor (no Biography available)

 

Ralph Lozano (no Biography available)

 

Shirley raised 6 children and all are college graduates.  She owned a beauty salon for 35 years and enjoyed talking to her customers.  Shirley’s 93 year old sister, Rita, wanted her to make the “FSA Hall of Fame” before she died and SHE DID IT!!  It took 14 years which might seem like a long time, but went by real fast because she had so much fun. She also qualified for the SWCD HOF with 272 points.  Shirley traveled to Australia and Germany to shuffle and made many nice memories.  She lost 2 of her best friend partners, My Becker and Faith Belott.  Marlene Colburn, Marilyn Everettt and others helped Shirley get her points.  She says that shuffleboard is a fun game  for seniors because you meet so many nice people.  Shirley met her husband, Gene, on the  courts and he encourages her.  She loves her family and fellow shufflers.

 

Marlene Coburn was born in Bay City, Michigan. She moved frequently to various parts of Michigan. Marlene retired from General Motors in 1984 and migrated to Franklin, NC and Bradenton FL with her husband Carson. They have been married for 34 years. Marlene started shuffling 1995 and immediately fell in love with the game. She felt that she found her niche in life playing this game. This year, she achieved her goal in the state to enter the FSA HOF with 200 points, and with 303 point in the SWCD HOF.

 

Marie Hunter (no Biography available)

 

Dolores and John's Induction in our SWCD Hall of Fame by Jerry Stannard FSA HOF ACTUAL PRESENTATION REMARKS BY INDUCTOR! Hollywood Had the Golden Globe Awards (2007 01 15) Shuffleboard Had The Hall of Fame Inductions!! Rev. John L. Brown - FSA Hall of Fame Recipient - January 15, 2007 by  Roy Norman. It is my sincere privilege to mention some highlights about our fellow shuffler and recipient of the FSA Hall Of Fame Award - Reverend John Leroy Brown. Apparently there are many John Browns in North America. So many, that when John attempted to establish a screen name for his new computer last year it wasn’t sufficient to add his initial for his middle name so he tried “Rev” John Brown and it worked. Now although there may be many John Browns in North America, we know that none, but none, could be like our colorful and talented John Brown. My first encounter with John was January 22, 1994. The evening before driving to Trailer Estates for a Pro tournament I received a call from my Southern District partner to tell me that he had taken his wife to the hospital and would be unable to play on the Monday. So as I was looking for a partner - guess who was also looking for a partner to enter his first Pro Tournament in Florida. That’s right a very young looking enthusiastic bubbly guy wearing a wooden cross with a smile a mile wide named John Brown - READY TO GO! In that tournament we placed second place in consolation, earning John one half point towards his Amateur Status. He then completed his Amateur Status in a one-year period. During a second one-year period year he completed his Pro Status. His first Pro point was earned at Sebring, on February 10, 1997. This was a very slow start compared to the year 2002/2003, when he earned 40 points, contributing to his goal which he is celebrating tonight. John has been and continues to be an ACHIEVER. Be it as - a class president; high school valedictorian; flying an airplane at age 16; obtaining his private license for carrying passengers in an airplane at age 17; being elected as Outstanding Farmer in Indiana at age 28; returning to university, at age 33, and graduating as an Ordained Minister; serving as a Chaplain of the Children’s’ Home in Berea, Ohio. At this time, John volunteered to offer “garden therapy” where he had as many as 80 emotionally disturbed gardeners using up to 51/2 acres of land for vegetables. He also supervised more than 100 Big Brothers and Big Sisters for 12 years; was a teacher; and even attended a Peace Rally in Russia with his daughter - Donna, who we are pleased to see, is here with us tonight. Once you know John you soon realize that he is a “fountain of knowledge” a walking encyclopedia a regular “Mr. Google”. Talk about - politics, literature, history, geography, world travel, the comics, farming, comparative religions; how to grow lima beans; and yes ask the name of the invasive vine that is blanketing the trees in the southern states and John has the answer - Kudzu. Also, almost any topic mentioned reminds him of a good joke. And as we know John’s energy and drive to ACHIEVE did not stop when he retired. In SHUFFLEBOARD - John has - - won the US National Amateur Singles held in Winter Haven in 1996. - won the FSA, State Pro Walking Singles in Leesburg in 2002. - played in 3 Pro Masters Tournaments - earned his 200 plus points by playing with many, many different players - With a special big total of 34 points earned with Allan Hamilton. But the biggest credit by far goes to John’s Individual efforts since he has earned one third of his total points by walking, walking, and again walking in 12 Singles competitions. The finale to his achievement was when Ben Coy and John won first place in Betmar to give John the final 5 points to make the magic total of 202 points for the FSA Hall Of Fame Award. To continue John - - was President of the South West District two years. - played 4 times on the US - International team - was State Delegate for the S W District to the FSA - at present serves as Regional Representative for the US National S. Ass. - with Al Hamilton as his partner this Can-Am team won the CNSA Doubles Championship in Chatham, Ontario - not ONCE but TWICE! -has been very successful in summertime shuffling in Lakeside, Ohio winning two National Doubles with Walt Wadel - and in addition to all of the above, for the past 8 years, John has been managing to find time to write a regular weekly article on Shuffleboard happenings which appears in the Bradenton Newspaper, and not merely reporting results and announcing upcoming events but giving many human interest stories about shufflers, as a “color commentator” for shuffleboard. - and again in addition to all of the above John has been very active in helping players to find partners - by his sign-up sheet for upcoming tournaments. Without a doubt John’s accomplishments contributing to the sport of SHUFFLEBOARD IN FLORIDA have been a demonstration of intelligence, talent and perseverance. Not only is it of some note what John has accomplished but there is more that he could have accomplished with a little more cooperation. For example, Trailer Estates courts might now have an installed roof over their courts if that young upstart John had got his way a few years back. But have no fear John is still working on that idea and as usual it is hard to keep a “good man down”. There is no doubt that John is a “bundle of energy and brains“. Can you imagine living with a guy like that? Well therein lies part of the secret for his achievements - that is, his intelligent and devoted wife and partner for the past 50 years - one of our best Shuffleboard Tournament Director ever - the wonderful lady Dolores Brown.

 

Ben Coy (no Biography available)

 

Al Nuttall graduated 1957 from the Bridgewater State College, earning his Master’s in 1961. He enrolled for additional education at Boston State College and Boston University. He played 3 years Varsity basketball. He taught history at Norton High School from 1957 to 1994, in 1964 he became Dep. Chairman. At a young age of 22 he became President of the Norton Teachers Association, leader of the Bargaining Committee. He also was the chairman of the Social Studies Department and held that position for many years. He coached basketball for the 7-8 grades. He became a girls’ Varsity Coach in 1981. He won 3 League titles and  never had a losing season. Al also coached the Golf Team, won 6 straight titles and again never had a losing season. He was named Coach of the Year. Al retired in 1994 at the age of 59. On a personal note. He married Anna Daidone 1965. They had 3 sons, 5 grandchildren. (4 boys and a little princess). Al and Anna had to wait 45 years for that moment. Al and Anna started their shuffleboard passion 1998. Al played in the Amateur Masters in 2002 finished in position # 4. He also played in the Pro Masters in 2007 and was the alternate in 2010. Al served as the SWCD President and the Bradenton Club President for 3 years. He has earned the honors to be in the SWCD Hall of Fame.

 

Chuck Daidone was born in 1928 and raised in DuQoin, IL. Sue Bowman Daidone was born in 1935 and raised in Lancaster, PA, they met in Lancaster when Chuck moved there to learn the photo-engraving trade from an uncle. They met in the summer of 1951 and married on June 26, 1954. Chuck had several photo-engraving jobs and so they moved several times before settling in Turnersville, NJ in 1968. Sue and Chuck have 3 children, John ( who lives with them), Cathy (who lives across the street from them) and Charlie. (who lives near Atlantic City, NJ.) They have 5 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter. They moved to Ridgewood in 1992 and entered into the world of shuffleboard in 1997. They made many wonderful friends they met and played with, during their shuffling years.  Sue has been very active in our SWCD. She started a blog a few years ago and keeps most of our shuffle friends up to date with all the age related problems.  In Sue’s own words:  “Hopefully we have many more years left to play this wonderful game”.

 

Pat Batdorff was inducted with 382 points in the Ladies' Division. The first time Pat shuffled she was in her early twenties, on vacation from Michigan, visiting her parents at Paradise Bay Mobile Estates, Bradenton. Her mom talked Pat into playing in their black and red, (now yellow) pot luck. July of 1978 Pat moved from Michigan to Bradenton. She teamed up with her mom in the district tournaments. One of the highlights of early shuffling was Pat and her mom played in the same District Masters! I must add, many of you know Rita Coy, she played in the District Masters that year also!  Pat's first win was in November 1985. After a few years Pat put shuffling on the shelf and went back to work.  She retired from a law firm after working there for 14 years.  Pat loves the game, each game is so different and each player is unique. Pat is so thankful for the great friends she has made over the years which is the best part of shuffling! Pat deserves the honor to be in the Hall of Fame.  Pat is currently in training to become a Tournament Director, showing great promise to be very good at that as well.

 

DICK WAS NOT ONLY A GREAT SHUFFLER, BUT A GREAT TEACHER. MANY OF US IN THE SWCD LISTENED CAREFULLY AS DICK WOULD EXPLAIN STRATEGY AND THE VALUE OF GOOD PRACTICE HABITS. HE IS TIED WITH HOF PLAYER ANN WEDEL WITH THE MOST ‘SWC DISTRICT’ POINTS EARNED AT 505. HE ALSO EARNED 485 FSA POINTS WHILE WINNING THE FSA MENS MASTERS IN 2007.  DICK IS REMEMBERED FOR WINNING MANY TOURNAMENTS WITH LONG-TIME PARTNER RUSS DEHART. HE ALSO PARTNERED REGULARLY WITH HALL OF FAME PLAYERS BEN COY AND DAVE MINNICH. I RECALL A CONVERSATION ABOUT DICK A COUPLE YEARS AGO WITH GLEN PELTIER AS I DISCUSSED HOW DICK HELPED ME. GLEN SAID, ‘DICK WAS THE BEST 8’s SHOOTER I EVER PLAYED AGAINST.’  SOMETIMES HE COULD BE A ‘TOUGH TEACHER,’ BUT HE ALSO WAS A REMARKABLE STRATEGIST AND COMPETITOR. ALL OF US WHO HAD THAT OPPORTUNITY WITH HIM ARE A BETTER PLAYER AND PERSON FOR KNOWING HIM.  I HOPE YOU WILL SHARE YOUR COMMENTS BELOW.  Ron Nurnberger, SWCD

 

Jim Bailey’s family grew up on a farm in UP State NY. His dad was working two jobs and they moved into to a small town near the old farm. After playing Soccer and Baseball in High School. Living in a poor area Jim and his buddy,s decided to see the world so they joined the USMC and off to Paris Island, SC they all went! After 4 years of service he started working in construction. Then he met his future wife Ninfa. They were married on 12-31-1960 (her Birthday).  Finally he landed a job at Kodak and stayed there for 30 years. He retired in Dec.1st. 1991. They then bought a motor home and left for FL. He started shuffling in 1996. Below is a story written by Ninfa a few years ago: Jim Bailey grew up on a small farm in upstate N.Y.  Upon graduating from high school Jim Sr. sold the farm and moved into the village of Sterling.  Work in 1955 was hard to come by so he signed on to a local contractor.  Being seasonal work Jim was laid off.  After some coercion from a couple of his cronies they all met at Mary’s Restaurant and there sat a Marine Sargent in his dress blues, medals and ribbons. We all said that’s for us.  Little did we know what lay ahead for us in Paris Island boot camp?  Momma come down here and take us home!!!    Jim competed 4 years and was honorably discharged.  Back home work was still hard to come by so he hooked up with a company that put up farm silos; that was also seasonal.  About that time he met a wonderful gal named Ninfa who after a whirl wind romance became his wife on Dec. 31, 1960; that is also Ninfa’s Birthday.  It is still going strong after 56 years.  Only God and Ninfa know why she put up with him that long. Jim and Ninfa moved to Rochester where she was from, where he started working in a paint factory to help pay the bills. 18 months later Kodak called (the big yellow box) and there he stayed for 30 years. Moving up the ranks Jim was in charge of a 400 million dollar coating machine that produces movie and Kodacolor film. This machine ran 24-7. In 1991 Kodak wanted to down size and they offered a retirement package that he could not refuse.  Therein began a new chapter in their lives.  In Dec. Ninfa and Jim bought a Motor Home and were on their way to Fl. settling in Palmetto where Jim’s Parents lived.  Jim’s Dad was 86 and his health was starting to fail. That first winter in Florida Jim started doing his first love and that was fishing and playing a little golf.  Jim’s Dad died in June of 1992 and he cherished the time he spent with him.  Time marches on and Jim & Ninfa moved into an RV park where Jim ran into Dan Sullivan a new friend who in 1996 talked him into playing shuffleboard, (I hate him to this day HA HA). Jim’s first tournament was at Bradenton Tropical Palms in the Senior Games not knowing rules or any procedures of the game.  Jim brought his cooler of beer and found out that was a big NO-NO.  At the Senior Games Jim ran into a lady who became a lifelong friend who was cheering for him to win in the singles event “Betty Downing”.  Jim played against Sam Barnett and others who were Pro‘s, not knowing what a Pro or a drift card was AND you’re not supposed to beat a pro!! He did.  Jim went on to win the tournament and Betty placed the gold medal around his neck and gave him a hug.  Wow this was fun!!! Dan Sullivan talked Jim into going to Tucson, AZ where they competed in the National Senior games.  Jim went on to win the gold medal in singles and Dan won the Bronze. In the fall of 1997 Jim joined the Bradenton Shuffle Board Club.  By this time Jim was feeling his oats until he ran into people at the club who knew how to play the game.  He listened and practiced and took his lumps and some butt chewing by his friend Walt Wedel.  Wherein he ran into a lady and declared “I love this game”, she replied “oh know we have created another monster”.  That lady was Ann Hersom. God Bless her. Jim started up the ladder of success and in the fall of 1999 he was approached by Dave Minnick and asked if he would be interested in running for the State Board as 3rd vice (Jim was already on three Boards in the district)  After much soul searching he agreed.  Ninfa hates Dave to this day.  JUST KIDDING. Jim owes his success to many, too many to name because he would leave someone out so to them he says God Bless he loves you all. Ninfa is no stranger to the “cue”!! She and Jim qualified for the Senior Games in three States in 1998; Florida, Kentucky and New York.  They went on to win gold at the National Senior games in Kissimmee.  Ninfa has also shuffled in International Events! As explained by Jim and Beth Allen, Jim (Bailey) made the shot that was heard around the world, the shot that won him the World Singles in 2009 in Betmar, FL. (He needed a 10 on his last shot to beat Ken Offenther). Jim is a Past President of the FSA and also a member of the FSA HOF.

 

Marilyn and Jerry Everett are from Northern Maine, 30 minutes from the Canadian border. They retired in 2000 and moved to Paradise Bay. They have two married daughters and three grandchildren attending college. Along the way, she and Jerry worked for 30 years as professional Ski instructors and race coaches in Maine and New Hampshire. Marilyn played in 11 Open/Pro Master Tournaments and won 5 of them. Her first one was the Amateur Masters in 2001. Jerry is already in the FSA HOF and Marilyn is well on her way with 172 points currently. They are both very active in our district as Tournament organizers and teachers for new referees. They both earned the honor to be in our SWCD HOF. On a personal note, Marilyn expressed that shuffleboard is a wonderful way to meet new people, make friends and exercise both mind and body, while partnering with many terrific ladies and men along the way.

 

On Thursday, January 14, at Golf Lakes at the Opening  Ceremonies of SWCD D-12, Bett Pitts of Ontario and Golf Lakes was inducted into the SWCD Hall of Fame.  Bett reportedly placed in a tournament for the first time on December 18, 1993.  Her first time to win first place was February 8, 1994.  She now has more than the 200 points to qualify for induction.  Bett has over the years spent much time and effort encouraging novices to learn to play better. Bett and her husband, the late John Pitts were regulars in district tournaments for many years and this column salutes Bett as having worked hard to earn the honors.  Bett’s comment, “I had good partners”.

 

Paul Miller of Pinecraft  has played shuffleboard for about three decades and was inducted into the Florida Shuffleboard Hall of Fame in 2010.  Paul and Mary live in Pinecraft  and Paul has won many District tournaments as well as state tournaments.  A native of Iowa, Paul became an Instant Pro before gaining much experience in the District.  Back then one had to accept Pro Status if you earned it.  Players today sometimes reject becoming instant pro as it is now optional to wait until next season.  Paul Miller is a gentleman and a sportsman, and he has earned this honor.

 

Jim and Jo Miller also live in Pinecraft in season and have a home in Northern Indiana as well.  They have three adult children and several grandchildren.  Jo is a great cook, sometimes favoring others with delicious foods.  She is also a great tournament director and has ten years’ experience at keeping everything fair and smooth at local tournaments.  Jim and Jo together have sparked many improvements at Bradenton Shuffle Club, including remodel of the office, tables and chairs in the hall and keeping up the courts, discs and restrooms.      Jim not only is already in Florida Shuffleboard Hall of Fame, and has won many State and District tournaments, but he also has resurfaced many of the district clubs’ courts.  We all thank Jim for most of the recent court improvements around here and for inspiring many of us to play better.  Jim has won top honors in Florida and SWCD Masters many times and he continues to play most of the tournaments offered and does it in first class style.

 

THESE FARMERS FROM THE MIDWEST HAVE LIVED IN BRADENTON FOR OVER 30 YEARS AND HAVE BEEN MARRIED FOR ABOUT 60!!. THEY SYMBOLIZE GREAT VALUES FOR SHUFFLEBOARD PLAYERS— HUMILITY, GOOD NATURES AND THE DESIRE TO GIVE BACK IN MANY DIFFERENT WAYS.   MEMBERS OF THE F.S.A.NATIONAL AND S.W. DISTRICT HALLs OF FAME, WALT AND ANN WEDEL HAVE PLAYED ALL OVER THE WORLD – AND DURING THE SUMMER THEY PLAY IN MICHIGAN.  THEY SPONSOR TOURNAMENTS,OFFICIATE TOURNAMENTS AND HAVE HELD EXECUTIVE POSITIONS ALL OVER THE COUNTRY! ANN WEDEL IS A THREE TIME MICHIGAN HORSESHOE CHAMPION AND IN THEIR HALL OF FAME. IT IS AN HONOR TO PRESENT M.V. PERSON PINS TO TWO VERY FINE PEOPLE, KALAMAZOO’S OWN WALT AND ANN  WEDEL. From: The Celebration Is Over! The Adventure Begins Date: 6/7/2018 10:15:11 PM To: ptrberg7@gmail.com Subject: [New post] Obituary of Walt Wedel. Sent Along by Ron Nurnberger 2018 06 07   stanistheman posted: " With a journey that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Walter “Walt” Wedel lived a life of purpose while holding his loved ones near. He loved the Lord, which was easy to see, and his zest for life made him such a" Respond to this post by replying above this line New post on The Celebration Is Over! The Adventure Begins Obituary of Walt Wedel. Sent Along by Ron Nurnberger 2018 06 07 by stanistheman With a journey that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Walter “Walt” Wedel lived a life of purpose while holding his loved ones near. He loved the Lord, which was easy to see, and his zest for life made him such a joy to be around. Walt was deeply devoted to his family, and he was so blessed to share 63 years with his beloved wife Ann. He was thrilled to witness his family tree blossom to include numerous branches of loved ones who were his greatest source of pride and joy. Deeply loved, Walt will be forever missed. The 1920s were an exciting time in America. Radios, washing machines, and motion pictures in both color and sound were among the latest advancements while Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb made baseball America’s favorite pastime. Amidst this exciting time was a time of great anticipation in the lives of Benjamin and Mabel (Reebs) Wedel as they were eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby as September dawned in Fulton, Michigan in 1928. The big day finally arrived on September 9th when the baby boy they named Walter Eugene drew his first breath. He was the youngest of four children as he was joined in his family by his siblings, Wayne, Rex, and Anna. Interestingly, he was nearly 20 years younger than Anna. Sadly, tragedy struck in Walt’s life as his mother died when he was only four. Walt was then raised by his father, and they also had a housekeeper named Alice who was like a grandmother to him. From the time he was a young boy, Walt was a bustle of activity. His father worked on the family farm that was established in 1876. Walt attended local schools and graduated from Athens High School in 1946. After high school, he was drafted into the Army and served during the Korean Conflict. With his military duties fulfilled, Walt returned home to the family farm. New and exciting changes were in store for Walt when he met the young woman of his dreams. Her name was Ann Henry, and they met at a square dance in Leonidas in 1954 with Rem Wall singing. Ann was from Climax and just loved the farm. They began dating, and it didn’t take them long to fall deeply in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Walt and Ann were married on December 11, 1954. Together they welcomed four children including Benjamin, Cyndi, Tim, and Lori into their hearts and home. Walt was deeply devoted to his family, and he was an active part of his children’s lives. He and his wife had a marriage that was such an inspiration as they were true partners in every way. Although he wasn't the cook in the family, Walt did like to eat. He had a bit of a sweet tooth but his breakfast while working in the fields was always a fried egg on soft toast with ketchup. With a desire to provide for his family, Walt was known for his strong work ethic. He loved farming, and some may even say that farming was in his blood. Walt’s first tractor came from an auction, which is how it was done in those days. Because the other farmers all wanted Walt to get the tractor, they all put his name in the drawing so he would clearly come out on top. His first tractor was an International tractor, but later he was farming with a John Deere. Throughout his life, Walt was one to keep busy. He was a sports fan, and there were several sports that he and his wife played together such as bowling, horseshoe pitching, and shuffleboard. They loved traveling abroad to participate in shuffleboard competitions, and these travels took them to places like Canada, Japan, Germany, Netherlands, and Brazil. Walt also served as the president of the USA National Shuffleboard Association for three years. Within his community, Walt served in local government including all positions on the board in Wakeshma Township and also a Kalamazoo county commissioner. Walt and Ann were inducted into the Michigan Farmer’s Hall of Fame as well as the Shuffleboard Hall of Fame. He was also a member of Wakeshma Community Church. A man of faith, Walt’s favorite Bible verse was Romans 8:28. To relax, he could often be found reading farm magazines and local newspapers. All who knew Walter Wedel would agree that he was an extraordinary man. He worked hard, but he played hard too, and he was practical, intuitive, and knowledgable on a great many things. Walt was kind and soft spoken, and his wit made him a true charmer. He loved his family, and his commitment to the Lord was deeply engraved in his heart. Walt will be lovingly remembered. Walter E. Wedel, of Fulton, passed away on Monday, June 4, 2018 at the age of 89. Walt’s family includes his wife, Ann; four children: Benjamin Wedel, of SC; Cyndi Frakes, of Vicksburg; Tim Wedel, of Kalamazoo; and Lori (David) Fry, of Fulton; six grandchildren: Jonathan (Michele) Frakes, of Portage; Heather Frakes, of Kalamazoo; Jessica (Randy) Bartholomew, of Fulton; Michael (Catherine) Fry, of OH; Travis (Vanessa) Fry, of Ypsilanti; Levi Fry, of East Lansing; ten great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Walt was preceded in death by his siblings: Wayne Wedel, Rex Wedel, and Anna Crotser; and son-in-law: John Frakes. The family will receive friends on Friday from 4 -7 p.m. at the McCowen & Secord Family Funeral Homes, Rupert-Durham Chapel, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg, (269-649-1697). The funeral will be held on Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Wakeshma Community Church, 16732 East UV Ave, Fulton. Burial will be at North Fulton Cemetery. Please visit Walt’s webpage at http://www.mccowensecord.com where you can sign the guestbook or share a memory and/or photo. Those who wish may make contributions to the Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan and/or Wakeshma Community Church.

Jerry Stannard welcomes Mel Erb as the first member into the newly formed District Hall of Fame MEL ERB INDUCTED INTO DISTRICT HALL OF FAME  Spring of 2015 the Southwest Coast District voted to establish a long-awaited Southwest Coast District Hall of Fame under the leadership of a committee chaired by Jerry Stannard.  The first official act of the new Hall of Fame occurred Thursday, October 22-2015 at SWCD Tournament D-3 at Bradenton.  Mel Erb of Ohio and Pinecraft, a top player the past two decades became the first inductee.  Mel wishes to thank all those who made this honor possible, including the SWCD Board, all his partners over the years and his many friends and well-wishers.  Mrs. Anne Erb and Mel received a standing ovation from the players and officials at the tournament. Bradenton Shuffle Club has become the site of the Southwest Coast District Hall of Fame. Wall space in our main meeting room has artifacts and pictures of inductees.