Minutes
2006 Jan 18 Feb 22 Mar 15 May 30 Jun 26 Sep 17 Oct 17
2005 Feb 1 Mar 15 Apr 2 Apr 14 Jun 15 Jul 5 Sep 6
  Oct 11 Nov 8 Dec 12
2004 Feb 26 Mar 25 Apr 20 May 25 Jun 24 Jul 27 Aug 17
  Aug 31 Sep 30 Oct 27 Nov 30
2003 Apr 8 Jun 10 Jul 8 Aug 13 Oct 22 Nov 11 Dec 11
Jan 18, 2006
The Meeting was called to order at 6:00 P.M.
Those in attendance were: Tom Fiscus, Rick Symodynes, Dave Dye, Mert Opfer, Bill Smuck, Joe Beninato, Bob Kubat, and Tori Pentaleon. Absent: Ben Heald
  1. Policy and Procedure. Rick gave a report on the first group of policies and procedures to come before the Board. They are as follows:
These will be voted on at the next meeting and if passed will be posted on our Web site. It is the Goal of the Board to separate Policy from playing rules.
  • Field Update. Tom F. gave an update on the fields for next year. It is still the NP Dodge Park complex that we will be playing on. It would appear at this time that we will have the fields with the better lighting. Tom is still working with Metro Omaha to finalize this. We will continue to get the best for our players.
  • Web Site. We are still experiencing some difficulties in this area, but as of writing these minutes it appears all aspects are working.
  • New Board Member/Assoc. Comm. We have sent out an E-Mail to see if there is any interest in the Board position that is vacant do to the fact that Cort F. left the Board due to his work schedule. To Date Duane Carlous has indicated he would like to apply for the position. We will vote on this at the next meeting.
  • Purchasing agent. Bob Kubat has accepted this position
  • Insurance. This is in the process of renewal. The old policy expires on 4/1/06. Phil S. is our agent. The meeting adjourned at 8:30. The next meeting will be at 6pm on Feb22, 2006.
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    Feb 22, 2006
    The Meeting was called to order at 6:00 P.M.
    Those in attendance were: Tom Fiscus, Rick Simodynes, Bob Kubat, Ben Heald, Dave Dye, Bill Smuck, and Torri Pantaleon.
    1. Player Registration: As of this date we have 97 players registered, including 5 new players.
    2. Purchase of Equipment: Bob Kubat will purchase 10 dozen optic yellow, Rock softballs for the upcoming season. These are 44 core, 525 compression. The cost is $473.
    3. Tax Situation: Joe Beninato is still working on this problem. No difficulties are anticipated.
    4. Fields: The Spring/Summer 2006 season will be played on fields 3 and 4 at Dodge Park on Monday and Wednesday nights.
    5. Web Update: Dave Dye presented the Board with a very well designed update for our Web Site. His design will greatly enhance ease of operation by our members. It has a much more logical progression from one page to another. Forms and schedules will also be easier to download. Final implementation date is estimated as June 1, 2006.
    6. Policy and Procedure Guidelines: Six new guidelines (Checking account access, Checking account balance, Formation of tournament teams, tournament scheduling conflicts, E-mail accounts, and Outside tournaments) were presented to the Board. Bill Smuck made a motion to approve all six. Second by Ben Heald and passed unamiously.
    7. Election of Board Member: Duane Carolus was elected as a new board member to Replace Cort Fernald.
    8. Banquet: This years’ banquet will be at the Offutt Base Lake again. It will be on November 3, 2006. If you are interested in being the Project Manager for this event, please contact any board member.
    The meeting was adjourned at 7:15. The next board meeting will be at 6:00 P.M., March 15, 2006.
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    Mar 15,2006
    The Meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM.
    Those in attendance were: Tom Fiscus. Rick Simodynes, Bob Kubat, Bill Smuck, David Dye, Torri Pentaleon, Ben Heald, and Duane Carolus
    1. Spring Practice. We will have 2 practices a week beginning April 3rd. Practices will be on Monday and Wednesday at Dodge Park.
    2. Draft Sequence. A motion was made by Ben Heald, that the fall win/loss record of each team not be used in determining the sequence of the upcoming Draft. Only the Spring/Summer records of teams should be used. Second by Bob Kubat, carried unanimously.
    3. Consideration for teams that have lost key players. A letter submitted by Bill Weller, Manager of the Twins was read to the Board. In his letter, Bill expressed concern that his team had lost his Co-Drafting partner, and would be at a disadvantage. During a spirited discussion it was noted that another team had lost both of their “Drafting Managers”. While the League wants to establish as much parity as possible, we also do not want to try to micro-manage the process. It is impossible to account for all the unforeseen variables such as injuries, illness and players having to move out of the area. Therefore, in a significant departure from the current rigidly structured format, the following decision was made: Prior to the next Board meeting, the Director of player personnel and the Commissioner of the League will formulate loose guidelines that will allow the Board to assist those teams that, due to unforeseen circumstances are not competitive. There is no way to formulate a plan that will cover all conceivable contingencies, however the Board will attempt to rectify major discrepancies.
    4. Banquet. Our Banquet will be on Friday, November 3rd at the Offutt Base Lake. Much thanks to Bill Smuck for getting this great facility on a Friday during the Holliday Season.
    5. New Associate Commissioner. Duane Carolus was nominated by Ben Heald to be the new Associate Commissioner. Second by Bob Kubat, carried unanimously.
    6. Web Update. The web update should be completed by 1 June. This will include a swap shop where members can purchase softball related equipment from each other.
    7. Last day to sign up. The last day to sign up for the Spring/Summer League will be April 12th. This will allow managers to properly prepare for the draft on April 19th, and will allow the Board to determine the number of teams that we will have and to formulate a schedule. We currently have 100 players registered.
    8. Managers Meeting/Next Board Meeting. We will have a Board Meeting after the practice on April 12th at Dodge Park. This will be followed by a Managers Meeting.
    The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM.
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    May 30, 2006
    The Meeting was called to order at 6:00PM.
    Those in attendance were: Tom Fiscus, Rick Simodynes, Bob Kubat, Ben Heald, David Dye, Duane Carolus, Bill Smuck, Joe Beninato, and Torri Pentaleon.
    1. Treasures’ Report: As of 1 June 2006 we will have a balance of $8628. Motion was made to accept the report by Bob Kubat, Second by Torri Pentaleon, carried unanimously.
    2. Personnel issues: We have 2 players that can be assigned to teams. One is Cort Fernald, who will be returning in Late June, The other is a new player, Jim Schenkelberg who just joined the League. After much discussion it was determined that the following issues should be utilized as the basis for determining where the players should be assigned. The only teams with 12 players assigned are the Twins, Cardinals, and Indians, all other teams have 13. The team with the most serious shortage (due to injuries, etc) is the Cubs. Since Cort Fernald will not be back for a month, His assignment to the Cubs would not help their situation. The Cardinals believe that Marty Mclaughlin will be returning to their team, so they waive the right to add a 13th player. The Indians have lost Denny Hoffman for the season when he re-aggravated a knee injury, reducing their roster to 11. They have historically had good attendance and declined to take a player at this time, but would be interested should another player join the league. Bob Kubat made a motion that Cort Fernald should be assigned to the Twins and that Jim Schenkelberg should be assigned to the Cubs. Both players will be in the Draft for the Fall League. The Motion was Second by Joe Beninato, carried unanimously with Ben Heald abstaining. Dennis Hoffman suffered a season ending injury after only 2 Games. A motion was made by Ben Heald to refund his registration fee, minus the price of his Jersey, second by Bob Kubat, carried unanimously.
    3. Tax Exempt Update: Joe Beninato stated that our paperwork for this status was submitted on April 17th.
    4. Web Page Update: David Dye has the rest of the Spring/Summer schedule updated. A number of upgrades and improvements are in the works.
    5. Marketing: Torri Pantaleon has approached a number of his contacts in an effort to get Nebraska Senior Softball some publicity. We have $400 budgeted for this area.
    6. Fall Season: The fall Season will be from August 14th until October 19th. We will probably be playing in Papillion again this year. Bill Smuck is coordinating with them.
    7. Board Member items. There has been some confusion with regard to the change to the rules requiring teams that are short to play with 9 players. It was never the intention of the Board (please see November, 2005 minutes) to doubly penalize a team by forcing them to play with 9 players and count the number 10 slot in the batting order as an out each time it came up. Therefore, we reiterate, that the 10th slot is not an automatic out.
    The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM.
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    Jun 26, 2006
    The meeting was called to order at 5:00 P.M. at N.P. Dodge Park.
    Those in attendance were; Tom Fiscus, Rick Symodynes, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer, Torri Panteleon, Dave Dye, Bill Smuck, Duane Carolus, and Joe Benninato.
    1. Fall Season: The Nebraska Senior Softball Fall Season for 2006 will start on August 14th and last until October 18th. Games will be played on Mondays and Wednesdays at Peterson Field in Papillion. We will have 2 fields available, so games will start at 6:15 and 7:30. Registrations will commence the 24th of July and cease on the 4th of August. The Registration Fee will be $70.00 for returning players and $90.00 for new players.. Returning players not getting their registrations in by August 4th will incur a $20.00 late fee.
    2. Player Resignation: Since two players have resigned from the same team; it has been decided that the League Commissioner would interview players from that team to determine if there is a problem.
    The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 P.M.
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    Sep 17, 2006
    The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
    Those present were Torri Pantaleon., Bob Kubat, Rick Simodynes, Duane Carolus, Joe Benninato, Dave Dye, Bill Smuck, and Tom Fiscus. Absent were Mert Opfer, and Ben Heald.
    1. Banquet. The Board discussed the time and place for the upcoming Nebraska Senior Softball banquet. Board members divided up the tasks to be accomplished for the event. It was decided to keep the cost at $5.00 per person that was established last year. Additional persons above the approved player and guest would be charged an extra $5.00 (total of $10.00) so as to not infringe on the monies paid by league members. There was a motion by Bill Smuck, and second by Torri Pantaleon to approve. The motion passed all voting yes.
    2. Tax Exempt Status. An update was given by Joe Benninato that it is still in process and he is keeping track of the progress.
    3. Fields. There was a discussion about fields for 2007 and beyond. It was decided that a committee will be formed in the off season to explore all possibilities. The goal is to find a permanent home.
    4. Web Site. An update was given by Dave Dye. He stated that Jeff Esky who had been helping with our Web Site will no longer be able to help us. With the problems that we have been having with the updating and modifying of the website, it was decided to get additional help. We have begun a search to find someone with design experience. Dave Dye will be looking for someone to help us renovate and update the website. A motion was made by Bob Kubat and second by Joe Benninato. The motion passed all voting yes.
    5. Donation. Motion was made by Rick Simodynes and seconded by Torri Pantaleon to donate $150.00 on behalf of Nebraska Senior Softball in the name of Dick Fielding's Wife to a charity of their choosing. Motion carried unanimously.
    The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
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    Oct 17, 2006
    The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
    Those in attendance were; Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Rick Simodynes, Torri Pantaleon, Dave Dye, Duane Carolus, Bill Smuck, and Mert Opfer.
    1. Web Site: Dave Dye is looking into getting a professional Web Site Designer for the League. We have several options, with one of them being someone in the League as a possibility.
    2. Fall League Champions: Since the final games of the season were rained out, and we would have had to go to the third tie-breaker to name a champion, a motion was made by Rick Simodynes that both the Twins and the Mets be declared co-champions. There was some discussion, but the consensus was that if two teams had the same record through league play; and the same record in head to head meetings; that it would be a shame to have someone lose on the third tie-breaker. The motion was seconded by Bob Kubat and carried unanimously with Bill Smuck and Dave Dye abstaining.
    3. Jackets: In an effort to change things up a bit the Board decided to order coaches jackets for both the Spring/Summer and the Fall League champions.
    4. Banquet: Bill Smuck is collecting the money for the banquet from the team managers up to the night of the event. This is necessary due to the final games of the season being rained out. Managers are asked to confirm ticket sales and get the count to Bill as soon as possible so we may order food and refreshments.
    The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
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    Feb 1, 2005
    The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
    Those in attendance were Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck; absent were Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald and Bob Kubat. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 P.M. at Brownies’ Watering Hole in Papillion.
    1. REGISTRATION UPDATE: Ben Heald reported that eighty (80) players had signed up, including three new players.
    2. BUDGET UPDATE/REVIEW: Mert Opfer reported that we have a current balance of $11,682.
    3. MARKETING: The Board reviewed some very nice four-color tri-fold brochures that have been developed by Dave Banghart and Cort Fernald for distribution throughout Omaha and surrounding communities during February and March in an effort to register new players. Ben Heald will contact his daughter-in-law at PIP printing to see if we can get a better price for an additional 100 copies.
    4. INSURANCE: Tom Fiscus reported that one of our league players, Phil Schenck, is in the process of obtaining premium quotations for our league’s 2005 liability insurance policy requirements.
    5. SPRING TRAINING: Although Spring training begins on April 4, we will not have access to N. P. Dodge Park until Monday, April 11; however, we will be able to utilize the two softball fields at Hitchcock Park, at 42nd & Q Streets, on April 4 and 7.
    6. SPORTS EXPOS: Metro Omaha Softball will host their Second Annual Softball Show on Saturday, February 12, from noon to 4:00 PM, at THE DIGZ (formerly McCormack’s), 4420 South 144th Street. The Athlete’s Expo, sponsored by the Papillion-LaVista Schools Foundation, will be held on Saturday, March 19, at Papillion-LaVista South High School. We will have a table at each of these two events and all NSS players and friends are invited and encouraged to attend. Those players who are willing to help with this event are asked to contact Tom Fiscus. We will be distributing our NSS flyers and talking to people about Nebraska Senior Softball. Rick Simodynes made a motion that we spend no further money on the Papillion show. It was seconded by Bill Smuck and carried unanimously.
    7. PLAYER DRAFT: Tom Fiscus will provide a large room with an “easel” type display board for the Draft. Our Board will do everything possible to ensure that the two temporary Managers assigned to each team provide equal skills for each team.
    8. OTHER MATTERS: With a complete player re-draft and new Managers, it is essential that the Manager’s Handbook be assembled and available for each team prior to draft day. Tom Fiscus will ask the appropriate Board members to assemble the Managers Handbooks. Tom Fiscus is in the process of filing the appropriate papers for tax-exempt status for Nebraska Senior Softball.
    The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 PM
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    Mar 15, 2005
    The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
    Those in attendance were Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat and Rick Simodynes; absent were Dave Banghart, Mert Opfer and Bill Smuck. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 P.M. at Brownies’ Watering Hole in Papillion.
    1. REGISTRATION UPDATE: We now have 93 players registered including 12 new players.
    2. PUBLICITY: Cort Fernald made a motion that we place a 2-inch ad in the sports section of the Omaha World Harold to help solicit players for our league. It was seconded by Tom Fiscus and carried unanimously.
    3. INSURANCE: We have obtained Property and General Liability Insurance for the 2005 season through an agency represented by one of our league players, Phil Schenck. This comes at considerable savings, and we have $1,000,000 coverage per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate.
    4. UMPIRES: Kevin Vann will continue to be our chief umpire this year and will be in charge of selecting and scheduling the umpires to meet our needs.
    5. SPRING TRAINING: We will practice Monday and Thursday evenings on two fields at Hitchcock Park on April 4 and 7, and for the duration of April on Field Nos. 3 and 4 at Dodge Park.
    6. PLAYER DRAFT: Rick Simodynes reviewed proposed procedures for our upcoming Player Draft on April 18. This item will be discussed again at our next Board meeting when we know how many players/teams we will have.
    7. MANAGER’S HANDBOOK: Per our previous meeting, Dave Banghart will provide a Manager’s Handbook for each team manager, prior to the first game of the season, which will include our League Guidelines, Policies and Rules, with separate category sections for Code of Ethics, Administration, Manager/Player/Team Responsibilities, Umpires, Playing Rules and Draft Procedures.
    8. NEW PLAYER I.D. JERSEYS: Bill Smuck and Dave Banghart will be responsible to provide each new player with a numbered pullover colored jersey to be worn during Spring training so that team managers can easily identify the new players to be drafted.
    9. REGISTRATION CREDIT: The Board reviewed a letter received from John Romano requesting that his registration fees from the 2004 Fall League be credited to 2005 Spring fees since he was injured and able to play only one game. The Board unanimously approved his request. $65.00 will be credited leaving a balance of $25.00 for him to pay.
    10. The next Board meeting is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, April 2, at a time and location to be determined.
    The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 PM
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    Apr 2, 2005
    The meeting was called to order at 9:00 p.m.
    Those in attendance were Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer and Rick Simodynes; absent were Dave Banghart and Bill Smuck. The meeting was called to order at 3:00 P.M. in the conference room at Rick’s business location.
    1. PLAYER DRAFT SELECTION PAIRINGS: The following pairs of Selectors were proposed and approved unanimously by the Board:
      Carolus/Tworek, Banghart/Peterson,
      Fernald/Koenig, Beninato/Simodynes,
      Fiscus/Scott, Evans/Tom Smith,
      Heald/Mitchell, Jordan/Sickman,
      Johansen/Kubat, Novotny/Weller
      The teams in the left column will make the first five (5) selections as determined by lottery. This format enables those teams a better chance of drafting a short stop. Each team in the right hand column starts out with an established short stop. Motion to accept these pairings and the procedure that allows the teams in the left column to have the first five picks was made by Tom Fiscus, seconded by Ben Heald, and carried unanimously. NOTE: On April 14, the above two groupings were amended to include the Fernald/Koenig pairing with the group in the right hand column. For more information, refer to the league officers meeting minutes dated April 14, 2005.
    2. PLAYER REGISTRATION UPDATE: Ben Heald reported that we have 117 players registered as of this date. In view of this, a motion was made by Rick Simodynes to have a ten (10) team league, which was seconded by Tom Fiscus and carried unanimously.
    3. SPRING TRAINING: The first two league practices will be conducted on Monday. April 4, and Thursday, April 7, at Hitchcock Field. The remaining Monday/Thursday practices during April will held be at Dodge Park with all practices starting at 6:00 pm.
    4. PLAYER DRAFT: The Player Draft will take place on April 20, 6:30 PM, at 10077 South. 134th Street.
    The meeting adjourned at 9:20 P M.
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    Apr 14, 2005
    The meeting was called to order at 9:00 p.m.
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck. The meeting was called to order at 8:15 P.M. at Kelly’s Bowling on North 30th Street.
    1. PLAYER DRAFT: Board members discussed the feasibility of drafting 119 players on nine teams versus ten teams, and after considering all aspects, it was unanimously confirmed that we would draft ten teams as agreed to in the April 2, 2005 minutes. In view of the fact that Cort Fernald previously played shortstop in our league and his registration preference was indicated as shortstop, Rick Simodynes made the motion, seconded by Ben Heald, which was agreed to unanimously that the Fernald-Koenig selection pairing be included with the other five selection pairings who have a shortstop. The player draft will be conducted at 6:30 PM on April 20 at 10077 South 134 Street.
    2. TEAM ROSTERS: Team rosters will be published on the web site April 21. Managers are encouraged to call their players the night of the draft to personally inform them of their team selection and notify them of their team’s practice schedule time at Dodge Park for Thursday evening, April 21.
    3. TEAM UNIFORMS: Major League Replica Jerseys and caps will be ordered April 22, screen printed with player’s name, number and NSS logo, during the first week of May, and distributed to team managers by May 9.
    4. LEAGUE SCHEDULE: Tom Fiscus will prepare two possible schedule options to present to the Board on April 20.
    5. FACILITIES, EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES: Bill Smuck and Rich Peklo will transfer the two scoreboards and two player storage bins as soon as the dugouts on Fields 3 and 4 at Dodge Park are complete. Ten dozen 44 COR, 525 compression, yellow optic mid-flight softballs have been ordered for the Spring/Summer season. Each team will be provided a NSS Manager’s Handbook, new scorebook and magnetic lineup board.
    6. POLICIES, GUIDELINES AND PLAYING RULES: Considerable discussion centered on our current policy and guidelines covering the use of replacement players when a team has less than ten roster players available for the start of a game. A motion was made by Rick Simodynes, seconded by Ben Heald and unanimously approved by the Board that teams with a current roster of twelve (12) players must have a minimum of seven (7) roster players present at game time to secure replacement players. Those teams with only eleven (11) current roster players must have a minimum of (6) roster players present in order to start a game. If a team fails to have sufficient players available at scheduled game time as stated above, the team will forfeit the game. Upon request from a team manager sufficiently in advance, the Board will consider special requests for replacement player accommodations to teams with a player or players subsequently injured who are expected to miss a considerable number of games. Dave Banghart will submit for Board member review and approval a proposed draft of a new NSS Manager’s Handbook by April 24.
    7. OTHER MATTERS: The honorable Mayor Mike Fahey will be asked to throw out the first pitch for league games to be held on Monday, May 16. Rather than schedule this for opening day, May 2, we have delayed this ceremony until all league teams will have their uniforms. Mert Opfer recommended to the Board that we obtain a NSS credit card to accommodate the numerous purchases that are made each year. Board members unanimously approved this and the application will be submitted in the next few days.
    The meeting adjourned at 9:20 P M.
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    Jun 15, 2005
    The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
    Those in attendance were, Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck; absent Mert Opfer. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM at Trendwood Park.
    1. Safety Concerns: All League members were given the opportunity to vote on two safety issues. The first issue was that of requiring a safety screen for pitchers. The League Members voted 39 to 23 against the safety screen. Rick Simodynes made a motion that the Board agrees to abide by the wishes of the majority and not provide a safety screen for the pitcher. Second by Cort Fernald, carried unanimously. The second issue voted on by League Members was the possibility of moving to Fields 1 and 2 at Dodge Park. League Members voted against this measure 35 to 25. Rick Simodynes made a motion that the Board again abide by the wishes of the majority and continue to play our games at field 3 and 4. Second by Cort Fernald, carried unanimously.
    2. Legal Bat’s: The Board reaffirmed the decision to only allow those bats authorized by the ASA beginning with the 2006 season.
    3. Fall League: It was reaffirmed that we will play our fall league games at Peterson Field in Papillion. The lighting is better and the cost is less. We can have two fields in the Fall, (the fact that we could only have one for the spring/summer league is the primary reason we switched to Dodge Park.) The Fall games will be on Monday and Wednesday night; since those are the only non-weekend days two fields are available for our use. Bill Smuck will coordinate with Papillion Parks and Recreation.
    4. Courtesy Runners: It was reaffirmed that a courtesy runner may only run one time per inning and that each team can only have two courtesy runners per inning.
    5. Commissioner Resigns: After founding our League in May 2000, and pursuing the growth and expansion of our league from two to ten teams during the past five years, Dave Banghart has decided to step down as League Commissioner effective July 15, 2005. We should all take a moment to reflect on the many good times we have had and will continue to have with our senior softball games. We need to think of all the friends that we and our spouses have made due to senior softball. None of this would have been possible without Dave’s dedication, hard work and selfless devotion to making our League what it is today. Thank you Dave.
    6. New Commissioner: Tom Fiscus was unanimously selected and has accepted the position of Commissioner of Nebraska Senior Softball, effective July 16, 2005.
    7. Board Member Vacancy: We are in need of one new Board Member. If you are interested, please contact any Board Member.
    8. .Web Site Expertise: We need a volunteer to help us with our Web Site. If you have this type ability and would like to give back something to senior softball, please contact any Board Member.
    The Meeting was adjourned at 7:15 pm
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    Jul 5, 2005
    The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM at Trendwood Park.
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Bill Smuck and Rick Simodynes; absent, Mert Opfer.
    1. Budget Status Review: The current budget was discussed in great detail, but the item that occupied the majority of the discussion was the shortfall that resulted from the Bobby Richardson Dinner. Because of less participation than expected, the event actually cost $617 more than the income it produced. The Board reviewed the history behind the event, as the Praise/Prayer Fellowship Team, a faith-based group of players from our league, originally proposed it. Each of the Board Members re-confirmed that although they supported the concept of the event, they had never voted to provide the financial backing or put league funds at risk in order to make it happen. Therefore, the Board, as moved by Tom Fiscus and seconded by Rick Simodynes, voted unanimously to approve the Budget without the $617 shortfall for the Bobby Richardson Dinner. The year-end balance after the Fall League is projected to be approximately $5,272. Because the Board recognized that the Bobby Richardson Dinner was promoted as a Fifth Anniversary Celebration of our league and was a very positive experience for a number of our league players, the members searched for a way to prevent the Praise/Prayer Team from having to absorb the entire shortfall. A quick determination was made that the shortfall would amount to approximately $5.00 per person if it were distributed over all of the league players. The Board felt that a significant number of league players would be willing to contribute their $5.00 portion if it meant lessening the burden on the Praise/Prayer Fellowship Team. Those players who do not wish to contribute will have their Fall registration fees reduced by $5.00. Any player that does not wish to contribute should contact our league secretary at bheald@cox.net to ensure your wishes are satisfied.
    2. Championship Awards: Sweatshirts will again be awarded to the Spring/Summer and Fall League Champions. No awards will be made to the team that wins the end of season tournament.
    3. Fall League Operation: After reviewing the proposals, it was apparent that our best course of action was to return to Peterson Field in Papillion for the Fall League. We will have one field for the first part of the season and then have two fields after September 10. Both fields now have sprinkler systems. The cost for Peterson is $1,010 versus $1,600 for use of Metro Omaha Softball fields. Motion by Cort Fernald, second by Ben Heald, carried unanimously. Fall League registration period will be from July 15- 31, 2005. The registration fee will be $60.00 for returning players. New Players will pay $80.00, as will those players who voluntarily enter the Player Draft. It was agreed that players would be allowed to enter the draft for the Fall League if they desire, (see June 24, 2004 minutes). Should a player enter the Draft due to his team being dissolved, he will pay $60.00 and be allowed to wear his dissolved team uniform.
    4. Policies and Rules: It was determined that we will not make any changes in the Replacement player restrictions for the Fall league. However, this matter will be included in the Fall Player Survey. The Board determined that we would continue to use the 44 COR 525 compression yellow optic ball for the Fall League since that was what the majority of our players indicated they preferred in recent player surveys. It was decided that we would invite the Chief Umpire to attend future Board Meetings.
    5. Board Vacancies: Cort Fernald was nominated by Tom Fiscus to be Associate Commissioner, second by Ben Heald and carried unanimously. David Dye will assume the duties of Website Manager effective July 16, 2005. This leaves us with one Board Member position and two Manager positions available as follows: Director Marketing & Publicity, Manager Scheduling & Statistics, and Manager Purchasing & Inventory. If you are interested in any of these positions, please forward a brief list of your qualifications (or resume) to Tom Fiscus. You may use e-mail if you desire.
    The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM.
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    Aug 11, 2005
    The Meeting was called to order at 5:30 PM, at Petersen Field.
    Those in attendance were: Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck; absent Cort Fernald and Bob Kubat
    1. Fall Schedule: Only one subject was discussed at this meeting, that being the question of which nights we would play for the latter portion of the fall schedule. The Board was faced with two options for the fall schedule. (1) We can play on Monday and Wednesday, and only have one field available on Wednesday thereby requiring two teams to play later games or (2) we can play Monday and Thursday and have two fields available on Thursday nights. Managers were polled, in order to determine their team’s preference. After much discussion, it was decided to go with option 1; we will have two fields available on Monday and one on Wednesday. The following were the major points the Board used in making this decision: The fall registration information states that games will be played on Monday and Wednesday. The League Officers Meeting minutes of both June and July also state games will be on Monday and Wednesday. Quite a few players paid their money in good faith, based on the fact that they would be playing Wednesday (and cannot play Thursday). The impact will be minimal, in that there will only be five (5) Wednesday nights with a late game scheduled. It was felt that a player having to play 2 or 3 late games had far less impact on those players who wanted to play Thursday than missing games completely did for those who could not play at all on Thursday. Motion by Rick Simodynes, Second by Bill Smuck, carried unanimously for option 1.
    The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 PM.

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    Sept 6, 2005
    The meeting was called to order at 6pm at Brownies Tavern.
    Those present were: Tom Fiscus, Rick Symodynes, Mert Opfer, Cort Fernald, Bill Smuck, and Ben Heald.
    1. Financial Report. We have a current balance of $8831.00. The Board has determined that it will be in the League’s best interest to maintain a balance of at least $6000.00. It is felt that this amount will give us flexibility should we have difficulty acquiring a suitable field to play on, or as a hedge against unforeseen expenses. After all anticipated expenses, we will have at least $6000.00 at the end of the current season. Motion to accept by Rick Simodynes, second by Tom Fiscus, carried unanimously.
    2. Vacant Positions Filled. A motion was made by Tom Fiscus to appoint Torri Pentaleon as Director of Marketing. Seconded by Ben Heald, carried unanimously. A motion was made by Ben Heald to appoint Joe Bennanato as Manager of Legal and Tax Issues. Second by Tom Fiscus, carried unanimously.
    3. Tax Exempt Status. Our application for tax-exempt status has recently been returned to us with a request or additional paperwork, a copy of our bylaws and an additional $350.00 application fee. We will be applying under Section 5017 C. A motion was made by Rick Simodynes, seconded by Ben Heald and carried unanimously to apply for this status. Our new Manager of Legal and Tax Issures, Joe Bennanato, will oversee the application process. Important note to all league members --- It is imperative that, in order to protect our tax-exempt status, no one represents Nebraska Senior Softball to any business or for any transaction that involves money, without the express approval of the Board. This includes the sale of items to members of the League, by using the Nebraska Senior Softball website, or mass e-mail. It could be perceived that we are trying to bypass sales tax laws, etc.
    4. Draft Process. Cort Fernald made a motion that the teams winning percentage in the Spring/Summer 05 season only will determine the draft order for next Spring/Summer. Fall play will not be considered since several teams are playing with players that will be on their Spring/Summer teams. Seconded by Ben Heald, carried unanimously. At the next Board meeting we will discuss all phases of competition and parity. If you have a suggestion, tell a Board Member.
    5. Substitute/Pool Players. Our only Pool Player has been assigned to the Cardinals since they are the only team that has a player with a long-term injury. Managers are reminded that every effort should be made to advise all players that might be interested in playing as a substitute player, that players would be needed. This must be done prior to the selection. Before the first game, when both fields are being used, the selection should be made in front of the concession stand between the fields. For other games, it is imperative that all potential substitute players be given the opportunity to play. Both Managers share the responsibility to ensure this happens. In the interest of timeliness, we will not wait for games to finish at the other diamond before conduction the drawing.
    6. Dave Banghart Award. Tom Fiscus and Cort Fernald will obtain a suitable award, to be given at our annual awards banquet. It is felt that an annual award (called the Dave Banghart Award) should be given each year to the player that most epitomizes the good sportsmanship, fellowship, and camaraderie that our league founder represents.
    7. Annual Awards Banquet. Bill Smuck and Ben Heald will present a proposal at the next Board Meeting. This will entail the location, cost, and workers needed to conduct this event in November.
    The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 PM.

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    Oct 11, 2005
    The meeting was called to order at 6 PM.
    Those in attendance were: Tom Fiscus, Rick Simodynes, Cort Fernald, Mert Opfer, Ben Heald, Bill Smuck, Torri Pentaleon, and Joe Beninato. Those absent were Bob Kubat and Dave Dye.
    1. Estimate on number of people attending the Banquet. Bill Smuck estimates we will have approximately 150 people attend the Banquet. There seems to be a great deal of enthusiasm about our upcoming event. Ben Heald and Tom Fiscus will purchase all required items for the event on 26 Oct. A list of tasks to be accomplished has been sent to all Managers and Board Members. Please advise Ben Heald if you will not be able to accomplish your tasking, or if you need help. Mert Opfer will get an exact count of number of tickets sold to Ben Heald, Bill Smuck and Tom Fiscus by October 15th. -Ben Heald and Bill Smuck will meet at the Pavilion at 9AM on the day of the event to coordinate everything. -Since alcohol is being served at this event, we need to ensure that none of the attendees drives while impaired. We will have designated drivers available. We all need to look out for each other and remember that the speed limit from the Pavilion until you leave Base property is only 15MPH.
    2. Band for the Banquet. Torri Pentaleon presented a proposal to the Board concerning a band for our Banquet. The cost for the Band will be $180, which is less than the price of Disc Jockey equipment rental. A motion was made by Cort Fernald to hire the Band. Second by Ben Heald, carried unanimously.
    3. Next year’s seasons. It was decided that we will not have a mid season tournament next year. We will have a Spring/Summer season and a fall season. We will have a shorter, later sign up period for the Spring Summer season. Exact dates to be determined at our next Board Meeting.
    The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 PM. Our next Board Meeting will convene at 6 PM at 4611 South 139th street.

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    Nov 8, 2005
    The Meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM.
    Those in attendance were: Tom Fiscus, Rick Simodynes, Cort Fernald, Mert Opfer, Ben Heald, Bill Smuck, Torri Pentaleon, Joe Beninato, and Bob Kubat. Absent was Dave Dye.
    1. Financial report. Our current balance is $5754. All bills for 2005 have been paid. The cost of the Banquet was $854.86, which comes out to $7.12 per player. It was agreed that this was an excellent function and a good value for our players. Motion to accept financial report made by Cort Fernald, second by Rick Simodynes, carried unanimously.
    2. Important dates for next season. Sign up for next season will be from 1 January 2006 until 15 February 2006. Any application received after 15 February will require an additional $10.00 late fee. Our season will run from May 1 to July 26 for the spring /summer season and from 14 August to 18 October for the fall season. There will be no mid-season tournament. Motion by Bob Kubat, second by Ben Heald, carried unanimously.
    3. Field Options. Papillion can only provide one field for the spring/summer season. Omaha can provide 3 fields for us for both nights. After considerable discussion, it was decided that we would play our Spring/Summer games again this year at Dodge Park. The primary complaint about Dodge Park was the lighting, and since we can have 3 fields, that should not be a factor. Games will be played on Monday and Wednesday. Motion by Cort Fernald, second by Bob Kubat, carried unanimously.
    4. Web Site. After discussion with our Legal Advisor, We adopted a policy whereby all postings on the web site that are non-administrative, will be reviewed by the Legal Advisor prior to being posted. Any proposed posting that is in any way controversial or questionable, must be approved by the Board Prior to posting. Only the current Commissioner and David Dye will have the password. Motion by Ben Heald, second by Bill Smuck, carried unanimously.
    5. Other items. We will look into the possibility of having a swap shop on the web site for used softball equipment etc. A motion was made by Ben Heald to give Kevin Vann (our chief umpire), a $100 Christmas Bonus; second by Rick Simodynes, carried unanimously.
    6. Rules. ASA standards. As previously announced, we will adhere to the ASA standards for bats from now on. Pitcher protection - all pitchers are encouraged to purchase and wear protective equipment including shin guards, helmet and facemask. The only rule change is that teams will only be able to substitute up to 9 players. All other rules such as substitute players not being able to play Short Stop or Second Base are still in effect. Motion by Cort Fernald, second by Ben Heald, carried unanimously.
    7. Draft. Only the Spring/Summer record of 2005 will be used in determining Draft Sequence for 2006. Motion by Cort Fernald, second by Rick Simodynes, carried unanimously. 8. Adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P M. our next meeting will be at 6:00 PM, December 6th at the Office of Simodynes and Associates.
    The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 PM.

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    Dec 12, 2005
    The Meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM at the offices of Simodynes and Associates.
    Those present were Tom Fiscus, Cort Fernald, Rick Simodynes, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Bill Smuck, Mert Opfer,Torri Pantaleon and David Dye.
    1. Budget Status Review. Our current balance is $5594.00. Mert Opfer presented a proposed budget for next year. It proposes that for the Spring/Summer League we charge returning players that are returning to their team $70.00, while new players and those that enter the Draft will pay $90.00. For the Fall League the fees will be $60.00 and $80.00. Motion was made to approve by Bob Kubat, second by Bill Smuck, carried unanimously. We will establish a new bank account within the next few days. The only people authorized access will be the Commissioner and the Treasurer.
    2. Spring Practice. This will commence April 3, 2006. We will have 2 practices a week. The Draft will commence April 19th, 2006.
    3. Web Site. David Dye submitted a proposal for web site upgrading and simplification. It will also simplify registration and make it easy for our players to print the schedule. A proposal was made that we adopt his recommendations and enlist the services of Jeff Eske to help with this upgrade. The maximum amount authorized for this upgrade is $500.00. Motion was made to accept the proposal by Bob Kubat, Second by Cort Fernald, carried unanimously.
    4. Policies and Procedures. Rick Simodynes made a proposal that, in order to simplify our operation and make the way we do business available to all our League members, we do the following: Divest Polices and Procedures from Rules. We will have one easy to understand page that explains only the Senior Softball rules that are different from ASA rules We will have a section that explains our policies and procedures on matters that range from the Draft to the amount of money the Board has decided should be held in reserve for unforeseen circumstances. Motion to proceed made by Ben Heald second by Cort Fernald, carried unanimously.
    The meeting was adjourned at 7:30. The next meeting will be held at 6:PM on January 17th 2006.

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    Feb 26, 2004
    The meeting was called to order at 7:00.
    Those in attendance were: Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck. Absent: Dave Banghart and Mert Opfer. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm.
    1. Player Registration Update: As of the meeting, we have 76 players registered, including two new and three returning players who have registered for the player draft as follows: Athletics-10, Marlins-7, Royals-9,D-Backs-9, Orioles-5, Yankees-9, Expos-10, Phillies-11, Player Draft - 6. A complete current listing of all registered players is available on our website.
    2. Finance Report: As of the meeting, $4,880 had been collected in registration fees.
    3. Marketing report: Cort Fernald will prepare a public service announcement for TV and radio. Flyers will be distributed again this year. Cort will prepare an article for Generations magazine, a publication that caters to the 55+ populations. It was determined that recruiting sponsors is more effective if they are sought as league sponsors rather than team sponsors, i.e., Company X bought all the softballs used by our league this season.
    4. Liability Insurance & Tax Exempt Status: Tom Fiscus informed us that our current insurance carrier, All American Insurance, charges us $599.00 per year for insurance. Similar coverage could be purchased through ASA for about $300.00; however, the fees required to join ASA, and the regulations we would have to agree to, may be cost prohibitive. He will research this item further. Tom has found an attorney that will do the paperwork to make us a non-profit organization under 501-C7. The Attorney has graciously agreed to do this at no cost to the league.
    5. Metro Omaha Softball Show: Four of our members worked the show and all agreed it was a worthwhile event. They talked to about 200 people and we had several serious inquires from individuals interested in joining our League.
    6. Umpires: Kevin Vann and John Nahnsen will be returning this year.
    7. Other Board Member Items: New players joining the league will be required to show proof of their age to a League Officer. A driver’s license or birth certificate will be required. All new players will also be evaluated, if necessary, to ensure they meet NSS player qualification standards. Two League Officers will be present at the evaluation. Additional keys are available for the storage shed. The Scoreboard will be refurbished prior to season start. Titanium bats will not be allowed.
    8. Next Meeting/Adjournment. There will be a League Officers meeting on March 25, 2004, at 6:30 pm, followed by a League Officers’/Team Managers’ meeting at 7:00 pm at Brownies in Papillion.
    The meeting was adjourned at at 7:45 pm.

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    Mar 25, 2004
    Those in attendance were: League Officers - Tom Fiscus, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck. Absent Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald and Ben Heald; Team Managers - Duke Burgess (D-Backs), Doc Falknor (Royals), Dave Mandina (Orioles), Ed Novotny (Athletics) and Opfer (Yankees). Absent - Rod Kidder (Marlins), Bob Morse (Phillies) and Tom Smith (Expos). The League Officers meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM, followed shortly thereafter by a joint meeting with team managers.
    1. Finance Report. Mert Opfer presented a report that we currently have a bank balance of $8,585. Motion made by Bill Smuck, second by Bob Kubat to approve; motion carried 5-0.
    2. Liability Insurance. Tom Fiscus reviewed the insurance situation with the board and a motion was made by Rick Simodynes and a second by Mert Opfer to accept the quote from All American to provide the league with Liability coverage for the 2004 season for $755. Motion passed 5-0. Note: Board Members voiced a concern that our $1 million coverage may be insufficient even though it satisfies the current requirements established by the City of Papillion. Tom Fiscus will further explore this matter.
    3. Pool Players. Motion was made by Bill Smuck and seconded by Mert Opfer that the two players who had applied to be permanent pool players did not qualify under the intent of our rules and guidelines and therefore will be in the regular player draft. Motion passed 5-0. Note: It was also noted that Rod Kidder will be the Manager of the Marlins.
    4. Marketing & Publicity. Bob Kubat has arranged with The Nebraska Office of Aging to place a copy of our NSS flyer in their newspaper. They have a circulation of 45,000, whom are very loyal readers and he is discussing with them the possibility of an article on us in their newspaper.
      Joint Meeting with Team Managers:
    5. Rule Changes. Bob Kubat reviewed the rule changes for the upcoming year. All Managers were in agreement and understood.
    6. Practice Schedule. Rick Simodynes will prepare an advance practice schedule for the managers that will be included on our web site or sent out via e-mail to all.
    7. Player Draft. Rick Simodynes reviewed the player draft format and sequence to be held on April 20 and how it will work. All Managers understood and were in agreement.
    8. Player Registration. The following is a list of the individuals by team who have not yet signed up and their current status (WNP - Will Not Play, or DNK - Do Not Know) for this Spring: Athletics: Bob Woods (WNP) D-Backs: Skip Prusha (WNP), Spencer Jacobs (DNK) Expos: Frank Kokotajlo (WNP), Harris Van Oort (WNP) and Don Wilson (DNK) Marlins: Sam Cipolla (WNP), John Romano (WNP) Orioles: Tom Exton (WNP), Ken Hermsen (WNP) and Harlan Wolterman (WNP) Phillies: Mitch Shuman (DNK) Royals: Lowell Gratopp (DNK), Tom Ruben (DNK) and Chip Staats (DNK) Yankees: Roger Sickman (Will sign up)
    The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM.

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    Apr 20, 2004
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck. The meeting was held at Petersen Field and called to order at 6:45 PM.
    1. Player Draft: The board reviewed, discussed and unanimously approved the proposed player draft sequence presented. The managers conducted the player draft immediately after the board meeting.
    2. Ninth Team: With 108 players registered and twelve on each team roster, it was unanimously approved that we would add a ninth league team this year. The new team will be the Cardinals. Dave Banghart will be the interim manager and will conduct the draft on behalf of the Cardinals. After a maximum of six games, he will turn over the managerial duties to one of the Cardinal players who is willing and suitably qualified. The board feels this is the best possible way for the new team to get off to a good start. It simply would not be fair for a new player manager in the league to try to draft unknown players and be fully aware of the league rules when he himself is just learning.
    3. Schedule: We will have a 20 game schedule consisting of two 10 game sessions. The post-season tournament will consist of a round robin tournament with the top 5 teams in one bracket and the bottom 4 in the other. The winners of each bracket will play each other for the championship of the tournament. Unanimously approved by the board.
    4. Financial Report: Mert Opfer presented our financial report and it was unanimously approved. We currently have a balance of $9,976.00 with numerous expenses yet to be paid during the Spring/Summer season.
    5. Late Registrations. In accordance with our bylaws, any player that does not have his registration and fees, including late fees, to the Secretary of the League by midnight on the last day of eligibility (in this case 19 April, 2004), will not be allowed to play and will have any funds he has sent returned to him. Several of the League Officers went to great lengths to try to make sure all players knew they had to have all monies to the Secretary by the dead line. We are all Volunteers and time just does not permit this kind of “babysitting” It is also not fair to the 99% of our players who follow the rules.
    6. Manager’s Handbook. A handbook containing all League policies, guidelines, rules, schedules, code of ethics, etc., will be provided to each team manager along with a scorebook. Managers and Assistant Managers will be required to certify that they have completely read, understand and will comply with the contents of the handbook.
    7. Scoreboard. Rich Peklo has generously agreed to repair the scoreboard prior to season start.
    8. Liability insurance. We have paid $733.00 for our $1,000,000 occurrence, $2,000,000 aggregate Liability policy required by the city of Papillion. Proof of insurance will be forwarded to Papillion Department of Parks and Recreation.
    9. New Sponsor. Worth has agreed to be a sponsor for Nebraska Senior Softball and will contribute six dozen new 44 COR 375 compression yellow optic softballs for use by our league.
    10. Age Verification. All new players must have their age verified by a League Officer. A Drivers License or other suitable form of identification will be required. No player will be allowed to play in a league game until he has been complied with this requirement.
    The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 PM. The next League Officers meeting will be on May 25, 2004, at 5:00 PM at Clarence Petersen.

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    May 25, 2004
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer, and Bill Smuck; absent Tom Fiscus and Rick Simodynes. The meeting was held at Petersen Field and called to order at 5:00 PM to discuss the following agenda:
    1. League Schedule Second Half: It was unanimously decided that we continue our previously agreed to guidelines that we would not make up games during the second half that are rained out.
    2. Guidelines for Replacement of Seriously Injured Players: It was decided that hereafter we will no longer assign a Pool player to a team as a permanent roster replacement for seriously injured players, i.e., those players who expect to miss more than six consecutive games because of an injury. Those teams who are missing one or more players because of a serious injury will continue to use available bye or replacement players from other teams just as they normally do when they are missing other roster players. Decision was unanimous.
    3. Irrigation System/Dugout Storage Bins: Bill Smuck will contact Papillion Recreation and request that Field No. 1 not be over watered, or watered immediately after a rain. Subject to approval from Papillion Parks & Recreation, Rich Peklo has volunteered to build two large storage cabinets for each dugout so that each player will have a separate bin to store their individual equipment (glove, battings gloves, jacket, etc.). Cost is estimated at less than $100.00. Both motions carried unanimously.
    4. Land Acquisition Proposal: Cort Fernald suggested that we look in to finding some land and developing our own softball complex. This is in the idea stage now and he will submit a specific written proposal for further consideration, review and action by the Board.
    5. Saturday/Sunday Practices: Cort will look into getting a Parks Department permit so that we can have weekend practices at Churchich Park for those players who are working and are unable to attend the Monday and Friday morning practice sessions.
    6. Senior Olympics Day: Dave Banghart will request each team Manager to survey their players to see if we have enough interested players to have a field day competition with numerous events. Tentative date is Saturday, June 26. If approved, Bill Smuck will lead the event with assistance from Cort Fernald and Ben Heald. (Note: It has since been determined that Clarence Petersen will not be available for our use on Saturdays until early Fall).
    The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 PM. The next League Officers meeting will be on June 24, 2004, at 5:00 PM at Clarence Petersen.

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    Jun 24, 2004
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck; absent Bob Kubat. The meeting was held at Petersen Field and called to order at 5:05 PM to discuss the following agenda:
    1. Post Season Tournament: First Half vs. Second Half Championship game will be played on July 13. However, if the same team wins both the first and second half, that team will be declared the overall winner and no championship game will be played. Format and schedule for the July 15-29 tournament will be round robin consisting of the top five teams in Bracket A and the bottom four teams in Bracket B. Teams will play each team in their respective brackets. Winners of each bracket (determined by (1) Won/Loss record, (2) Head-to-Head competition, (3) Least Runs Against (all games) and (4) Run Margin Comparison (all games) will play for the championship on July 29.
    2. Financial Report: We have a balance of $5,483.00 on hand. It was unanimously agreed that fall registration fees would again be $60.00 for basic registration and $80.00 for new players and those needing a new jersey.
    3. Fall League: Registration period will be July 15-31. By a 5-1 majority vote, it was agreed that current roster players may exercise their option of returning to their same team, or entering the player draft for the Fall League. In the event that this causes the team losing a player an undue hardship (due to lack of returning players to that team, and no other draftees available) the board will evaluate the situation. Every effort will be made to satisfy those players who desire to change teams. The Fall season will be August 10 to October 14 with a 16 to 18 game schedule, assuming we have nine teams. At the end of the Fall season, there will be two dates for position games matching the 1 vs. 2, 3 vs. 4, 5 vs. 6, etc., teams against each other, and rainouts will not be made up.
    4. Injured Players: Any player who is injured and unable to continue playing in at least half of the scheduled games may petition the Board in writing for a partial registration fee refund or credit towards the next season.
    5. League Rules: (a) If both Managers agree, games 2, 3, and 4 may be started as much as 15 minutes earlier than the scheduled start time. Obviously, managers need to encourage their players to show up early enough for this to be feasible. (b) By a 5 to 1 vote, it was decided that, as a trial test for the Fall League, in the top of the 7th inning only, the visiting team may score as many as 10 runs total if they are ahead, or 10 runs more than their opponent if they are tied or behind. This rule is just like the current rule; only 10 is substituted for 5 for the visitors in the 7th inning only. This issue will be evaluated in the player survey.
    6. Proposed Land Acquisition Update: Cort Fernald presented three options for the board to review and consider with the objective to acquire, purchase or lease sufficient acreage in or nearby Omaha, for the purpose of developing or improving a suitable softball complex for use by Nebraska Senior Softball. It was unanimously agreed to ask Woody Johansen to represent and assist the league in locating possible land sites for this purpose. Tom Fiscus will contact an attorney to advise us on the proper way to pursue this and how best to attain the correct non-profit status.
    7. Other Matters: A written proposal and recommendation submitted by Duke Burgess that would require umpires to keep track of each games score and report it to last home team manager of the evening, was unanimously rejected. The Board did unanimously approve a proposal to have the umpires ensure that each winning manager has an opportunity to record the official score. Occasionally, the score has been removed from the scoreboard before the winning manager recorded it. Our policy and guidelines will continue to require that it is each winning manager’s duty to properly record and report the correct score within no more than twelve hours after completion of the game.
    The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 PM. The next League Officers meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 27, 2004, at 5:00 PM at Clarence Petersen.

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    Jul 27, 2004
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck; absent Mert Opfer. The meeting was held at Petersen Field and called to order at 7:00 PM to discuss the following agenda:
    1. Post Season Tournament: It was decided that the current post-season tournament games would all be played in spite of the recent rainout. All games will just be moved forward to the next scheduled day of play, and played at the same time as originally scheduled. The Board voted unanimously to do this in order to give our players as many games as possible. We will continue to make every effort to give our players as much value for their registration fees as possible.
    2. Fall League (August 10 - Oct 14): As of this writing we have 43 players registered for the Fall League. Registration deadline is July 31 for current players and August 5 for new players. In the event we do not have enough players for nine teams in the fall league, we will reduce the number of teams to that which we have sufficient returning and new players to support. The team(s) to be disbanded will be determined by the fewest number of players returning to the team. In the event of a tie, the team(s) lowest in the overall standings will be the determining factor. The fall draft is scheduled to be conducted on August 5. No league games will be scheduled for Thursday, August 26, due to the absence of 35 to 40 league players on three tournament teams who will be competing in the Senior Softball World Series in Des Moines on August 25-29. Both Clarence Peterson Fields will be available for Nebraska Senior Softball use on that night, and all players and teams are encouraged to utilize them for pick up games or practices. In the event that the Cornhuskers (or any other team) play on a Thursday evening, we will not reschedule league games. It was decided that we would ask the players in the post-season survey if they would be interested in having a wooden bat night next season.
    3. League Championship Awards: A motion was made and unanimously passed that colorful NSS League Champion sweatshirts will be awarded to the 2004 Spring/Summer League and Fall League Champions at the conclusion of the Fall season, and that no special award will be provided to the team who wins the post-season tournament, as was done in 2003.
    4. Eleven Player Teams: On a trial experimentation basis, the post-season tournament of 2005 will be conducted using 11 defensive players per team, which will include a middle infielder/rover position. We will then survey our players and determine if we want to change to the eleven defensive player format for the 2005 Fall season. This passed by a 3 to 2 vote.
    5. Peterson Facilities: Player storage bins will be constructed for the dugouts prior to the start of the Fall season. We have a new run scoring plate. Winning manager of the last game played is responsible to ensure that it is placed in the storage locker and that the rubber gasket is placed in the attachment point in the ground. The padlocks are missing from the lights and scoreboard. Home team managers are responsible to make sure the lights are turned off and our property is properly secured before leaving the field, after the last game. The visiting team responsible for filling, leveling and raking the batter’s box and the pitching mound area at the conclusion of the last game.
    6. Proposed Land Acquisition: Woody Johanson presented the board with some examples of land values and some of the many items we will have to consider for this to go forward. Cort Fernald presented the Board with an Investors Proposal that outlined how capital could be obtained for shares and how the shares could be sold.
    7. Manager Evaluation: A committee consisting of Tom Fiscus, Rick Simodynes, and Bill Smuck was formed to discuss some managerial problems and what can be done to resolve them. They will report their findings to the Board prior to the August 5 player draft.
    8. Player Questionnaire Survey: This will be conducted during the period September 14-23. The results will be evaluated by the Board on September 30 and provided to all league players in early October.
    9. Schedule: The next three Board meeting are scheduled to be held on Tuesday August 31, 5:00 PM; Thursday September 30, 5:00 PM; and Thursday October 28 at 6:30 PM.
    The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 PM.

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    Aug 17, 2004
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck; absent Mert Opfer. This meeting was not the normal monthly meeting but a special meeting held at Petersen Field and called to order at 5:05 PM to solely discuss the following matter:
    1. Spring/Summer League Champions: The purpose of this meeting was to review all facts and determine which team would be declared the official Spring/Summer League champions for the 2004 season. In 2003, the team with the best accumulated winning percentage for the 1st Half, 2nd Half and Post Season Tournament determined the overall Spring/Summer League Champion. The Yankees won the 1st Half (8-3), the Expos won the 2nd Half (6-1), and in the Post Season Tournament, the Yankees, the winner in Bracket B (4-0), defeated the Expos, winner in Bracket A (3-1) in the head-to-head match up for the Tournament championship. However, with both teams having identical 16-6 overall records, the Expos were declared the 2003 Spring/Summer League Champions as they won the seven head-to-head games against the Yankees 4-3, outscored them 143-114, and had the best overall run margin of 159 to 86 against all opponents. This year we also had a split season whereby the winner of the first half, Diamondbacks (7-2), played the winner of the second half, Phillies (9-1) on July 13, in what was referred to as the 1st Half versus 2nd Half League Championship. We then concluded our Spring/Summer season with a post season tournament which was won by the Diamondbacks (4-1), while the Phillies (2-2), had the best Spring/Summer overall record and winning percentage (17-7 and .708%), compared to the Diamondbacks (17-8 and .680). The Board unanimously agreed that their intention was to have the Spring/Summer League Championship be the winner of the game between the first and second half champions. The Board further agreed that the post-season tournament was to provide another opportunity for all of our players to play more games; and it was not intended to have a bearing on the league championship. The Board also felt that this was the understanding of the majority of the players who played in the league and the championship game. However, a thorough review of our past minutes indicated that this was not precisely documented. Because of last year's absence of a playoff game and reliance on overall record, the Board acknowledged that some players could have reasonably interpreted the process differently. After considerable discussion a motion was made and seconded that the Diamondbacks be declared the League Champions and awarded Championship sweatshirts; and secondly, that the Manager of the Phillies will be asked to poll his team to determine if they feel that they also deserve championship sweatshirts. If so, the members of the Phillies will also be awarded appropriate sweatshirts. Motion passed unanimously.
    2. Future Board Meetings/Adjournment: The next regular monthly Board meeting will be held on Tuesday August 31, 5:00 PM. There was no further business to discuss and the meeting was adjourned at 5:35 PM.
    The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 PM.

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    Aug 31, 2004
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer and Bill Smuck; absent Rick Simodynes. Meeting was called to order at 5:05 PM at Clarence Petersen.
    1. Budget Review and Update: Mert Opfer presented the Board with our current budget status. We have $8,821 on hand and are projected to have approximately $7,000 after all expenses at the conclusion of the Fall Season.
    2. Meeting with the Mayor of Omaha: Dave Banghart, Bill Smuck, Tom Fiscus, and Cort Fernald have been invited to meet with the Mayor on September 1, 2004. The purpose of this visit is to explore the possibility of entering into an agreement with the city of Omaha with regard to two or more permanent fields for use by Nebraska Senior Softball. This first meeting will be of a fact-finding nature. It is hoped that we will form a committee with some of the senior Recreation officials, and develop a plan that is both beneficial and cost effective. We are hoping to obtain a location that has at least two fields so that we will not have to schedule a lot of Bye or late games when our League expands to ten or more teams.
    3. Player Survey: Each Board Member was requested to provide Rick Simodynes by September 10 with three potential questions to be included in our Player Survey Questionnaire, which will be distributed to our players on September 21.
    4. Complete Player Draft 2005: As unanimously agreed to by all Board members on June 10, 2003, and unanimously ratified via e-mail by all current Board members in early August, the league will have a complete player re-draft in 2005. Dave Banghart will send E-mail to all league players to that effect within the next few days.
    5. Facility improvements 2005: It was recommended that we try to obtain some green netting fabric that will be used to cover a portion of the backstop in order to provide a better background and prevent reflections from the windshields, as well as headlights from blinding our players.
    6. Nebraska Half Century Tournament: It is expected we will have 6 to 8 teams compete in the NHCS tournament on September 25-26. Four or five of the teams will be from the Omaha area, with Grand Island, Kearney, and hopefully Auburn and Lincoln also competing.
    7. NHCS/SSWS Regional Qualifier - 2005: Dave announced that if there is sufficient interest and non-playing volunteers to help from our NSS league, he will plan to organize and host a NHCS Senior Softball World Series Regional Qualifying tournament at Kelly Softball Complex early next spring.
    The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 PM. The next meeting will be at 5:00 PM. Sept. 30 at Petersen Field.

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    Sep 30, 2004
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Tom Fiscus, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer and Rick Simodynes; absent Cort Fernald, Ben Heald and Bill Smuck. Meeting was called to order at 5:35 PM at Clarence Petersen.
    1. Budget Review and Update: Mert Opfer presented the Board with our current budget status. We have $8,534 on hand and are projected to have approximately $7,000 after all expenses at the conclusion of the Fall Season. Motion was made by Rick Simodynes, seconded by Tom Fiscus, to approve the budget as presented, which passed unanimously.
    2. Omaha Parks & Recreation: Dave Banghart, Bill Smuck and Tom Fiscus met with representatives of the Omaha Parks and Recreation Department on September 1, 2004. to explore the possibility of entering into an agreement with the city of Omaha with regard to two or more permanent fields for use by Nebraska Senior Softball. We are hoping to obtain a location that has at least two suitable fields so that we will not have to schedule Bye or late games when our League expands to ten or more teams. Metro Omaha Softball has submitted a tentative proposal for the use of two fields, including the cost of team registration fees which are substantially greater than we are currently paying. A meeting will be scheduled with Metro Omaha Softball later in October with the intent of negotiating a more favorable arrangement and long-term agreement.
    3. Player Survey: Nine questions for possible inclusion in the annual Player Survey were reviewed, discussed thoroughly and unanimously approved for distribution on October 5 to all 2004 Spring/Summer and Fall League Players. The questions involved ball type, bats, batter’s starting count, number of defensive players, length of league seasons, courtesy base runners, uniforms, possible league play at a different facility, and the 2005 player draft. The Board is simply trying to obtain a broad-based feeling for the player’s preferences as we strive to make decisions that will make our league even better.
    4. Player Draft 2005: As unanimously agreed to by all Board members on June 10, 2003, and unanimously ratified via e-mail by all current Board members in early August, the league will have a complete player re-draft in 2005. The specific details of the draft, such as assignment of managers to each team, method and sequence of drafting players, etc., in an effort to develop team parity throughout the league, will be discussed in depth at our forthcoming November and/or December Board meetings.
    The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 PM. The next regularly scheduled Board meeting will be held Wednesday, October 27 at 5:00 PM at a location to be determined.

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    Oct 27, 2004
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck; absent Cort Fernald. Meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM at Dave Banghart’s home.
    1. BUDGET UPDATE/REVIEW: Mert Opfer reported that our current balance is $6,867.00.
    2. BALL FIELD FACILITIES: All facts were presented to the Board with regard to our options for the 2005 season. We have the option of playing in the Metro Omaha Softball (MOS) using two fields at either N.P. Dodge Park or Hefflinger Field; or staying with Papillion Parks & Recreation at Clearance Peterson where only Field No. 1 would be available to us on Tuesday and Thursdays. Our primary concern is that we anticipate the league will expand to 10 or more teams next year. A meeting on October 26 with Papillion Parks and Recreation confirmed that they cannot accommodate us with a second field except for Saturday evenings. Therefore the Board was faced with the option of either forcing the League to stagnate and limit us to the current number of teams, or move to MOS and one of the other fields mentioned. A field inspection by two of our league officers determined that Hefflinger is not a good quality field to meet our needs. However, the four field complex at N.P. Dodge Park are in the process of being completely renovated with agri-lime composition and two of the fields can be made available for our use both Monday and Thursday nights. MOS will also publicize Nebraska Senior Softball, both on their website and via mail, to all MOS slow pitch softball teams who participated this past year and as a result, we can expect to realize more significant growth for our senior league in 2005. With accessability to two fields, we will no longer need to schedule a late game at 9:30, until such time in the future when we have at least 14 teams. We also seriously considered the results of the Player Survey which indicated that 60% of those responding were willing to play at a different local softball complex with two fields on Monday and Thursday evenings so that our league may continue its growth and expansion with additional players and teams, while only 25% preferred to continue using Peterson Field. We are still on excellent terms with Papillion Parks and Recreation, and we will have the option of returning to Petersen for the 2005 Fall League and will be able to use two fields at their proposed new softball complex when it is completed, possibly as early as 2006. After considerable discussion a motion was made by Tom Fiscus to move to N. P. Dodge Park for Spring/Summer 2005. It was seconded by Rick Simodynes and passed with the only dissenting vote being by Bill Smuck.
    3. . PLAYER SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE: A long presentation and discussion was made with regard to the Player Survey including a complete review of all of the additional comments and suggestions offered by 21 players. The following actions were taken:
      (1) Ball type: In accordance with survey results, a motion was made to use the Mid Flight, 44 core, 525 compression, yellow optic ball for the 2005 season. Motion by Bill Smuck, second by Mert Opfer, and approved unanimously. (2) Bat Restrictions: In view of the survey results, we will continue to follow Senior Softball - USA bat standards for the 2005 season and effective January 1, 2006, switch to ASA standards for the 2006 season. This will allow those players who have invested in new expensive bats to use them for at least one full season. Players are reminded that those bats included on the ASA banned list will no longer be allowed in 2006. Motion by Rick Simodynes, second Bob Kubat, approved unanimously. (3) The Count: Using the survey results as our guide, it was determined that we will continue to use the 1 and 1 count with a courtesy foul for the 2005 season. Motion by Tom Fiscus, second Bill Smuck, approved unanimously. (4) Defensive Players, The overwhelming majority of respondents to the survey wanted to continue to use ten, rather than eleven, defensive players. Motion was made by Bob Kubat, second by Rick Simodynes and carried unanimously. (5) Split Season, We will continue to have a split season. The playoff/tournament format will be determined after we know the specific number of teams that will be playing. Motion Tom Fiscus, second Bob Kubat, carried unanimously. (6) Courtesy Runner: Utilizing our survey respondents preferences as a guideline, a motion was made to allow only two courtesy runners per inning, the only exception being that should a player have an injury that requires him to be removed from the game after two courtesy runners have already been used, a third courtesy runner will be allowed. The person that is injured and removed from the game cannot return to the game under any circumstances. A player may be used as a courtesy runner only once per inning. Replacement players may not be used as courtesy runners. Should these rules be violated, the player most advanced (closest to scoring) will be declared out. Motion by Mert Opfer, second by Bob Kubat and carried unanimously. (7) Uniforms: We will continue to use MLB replica uniforms with the players name and number affixed. Motion by Rick Simodynes, second by Bob Kubat, carried unanimously. (8) Player Draft: The Board’s decision to have a complete player redraft for the 2005 season was supported by survey results of 67% in favor to 19 % opposed. The player draft will be conducted in serpentine order draft in the following manner. Depending on how many teams there are in 2005, the current top 20 to 24 players in the League will be identified and equally paired and assigned to a team. The two assigned players on each team will function as the Team Managers for the Draft and for the first six games of the season, after which each team will jointly select one players as their Manager. Motion made by Rick Simodynes, second by Ben Heald, carried unanimously.
    4. OTHER 2005 RULE CHANGES. A maximum of only two replacement players will be allowed per team. Replacement players will be required to bat at the end of the order, may not play Second Base or Short Stop, or be used as a courtesy runner. Should a team lose a player for an extended period due to injury, the team Manager may petition the Board to allow that team to use a third replacement player. This will only be granted for a prolonged extenuating circumstance. Motion by Ben Heald, Second Tom Fiscus, carried unanimously.
    The meeting was adjourned at 11:15 PM. The next meeting will be at Tom Fiscus’ home in Plattsmouth on November 30 at 6:30 PM.

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    Nov 30, 2004
    Those in attendance were: Dave Banghart, Cort Fernald, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck. The Meeting was called to order at 6:30 P.M. at Tom Fiscus’ home near Plattsmouth.
    1. BUDGET UPDATE/REVIEW: Mert Opfer presented an overview of the 2004 year-to-date income and expenses, which includes an estimate year-end cash balance of $5,645. Also, the 2005 Budget was reviewed and discussed with estimated expenses totaling $18,725. A motion was made by Bob Kubat to accept the budget as presented with a second by Tom Fiscus, which was approved unanimously.
    2. GOODWILL: A motion was made by Rick Simodynes to show our appreciation of the fine job Kevin Vann continues to do as our league umpire, by sending him a check for $100.00. Second by Tom Fiscus which passed unanimously.
    3. FACILITIES: We will be allowed to store our equipment on the ground floor of the central tower at Dodge Park and we will also be allowed to practice at Dodge Park beginning on April 11, 2005. During the first week of April, we will use the two fields at Hitchcock Park. Dave Banghart suggested that we recommend to Metro Omaha Softball that the batter’s boxes be stabilized on the two newly renovated agri-lime Fields 3 and 4 at Dodge Park using a method similar to what was done in 2002 at Clarence Petersen. A motion was made by Tom Fiscus to contribute sufficient funds for the necessary materials, not to exceed $500, for the complete renovation of the batters box at our two new fields. Second was by Cort Fernald and the motion passed unanimously.
    4. PLAYER REGISTRATIONS: The players who have registered for the 2005 season are now posted on our web site and will be updated weekly.
    5. PLAYER DRAFT: Rick Simodynes will soon send an e-mail or letter to each of the 24 players in the League who have been identified to determine if they are willing to function as the Team Managers for the Draft and for the first six games of the season, after which each team will jointly select one player as their Manager. A motion was made By Rick Simodynes that three specific Board members, the Commissioner, Associate Commissioner and Director Player Personnel, not be allowed to be permanent team managers while also holding their Board positions. Second by Tom Fiscus and approved unanimously.
    6. LEAGUE SCHEDULE: It was decided that we will continue to maintain our game schedules as in the past at 1 hour and 15 minute intervals, with games scheduled to start at 6:15, 7:30 and 8:45 PM. If there are more than twelve teams, the scheduled games times will most likely be modified to start earlier.
    7. LIABILITY INSURANCE: Our fees to Metro Omaha Softball include the cost of liability insurance. Tom Fiscus will do some research and make a recommendation to the Board with regard to whether or not we need to continue our current policy as well.
    8. TAX EXEMPT STATUS: Tom Fiscus is in the process of completing an application for tax-exempt status 501 C-7 for our League.
    9. MARKETING/PUBLICITY: Cort Fernald presented a proposed draft of several NSS marketing brochures. One of these will be the type that is placed in public places; the other will be one that he will send to major businesses for insertion in their Company Newsletters. Some of our targets will be Union Pacific, Con Agra, Cox Communications, Qwest Communications, Omaha Fire and Police Departments, The VFW and American Legion. A NSS brochure will also be included in the Metro Omaha Softball January mailings to all of the slow pitch softball team managers who participated in MOS during 2004. It was suggested and unanimously approved that NSS participate in the Metro Omaha Softball Expo in Omaha on February 12 and Athlete’s Expo in Papillion on March 19, 2005. Tom Fiscus made a motion that we purchase a table for the Athlete’s Expo at the reduced price of $75.00. Second was by Cort Fernald and carried unanimously.
    10. WINTER CONDITIONING PROGRAM: The importance of players being in good condition prior to the start of spring training in April was discussed, as numerous players, particularly those who are new to our league, experience injuries early in the season. Cort Fernald volunteered to contact the Strike Zone in Rockbrook Plaza, 110th & Center Streets, during January to determine the feasibility and cost of establishing a winter conditioning program during the month of March at their indoor facility for the benefit of players in our league who will be invited and encouraged to participate.
    11. PRAISE/PRAYER FELLOWSHIP TEAM: Dave Banghart shared with the Board that a small group of Christian players in our league met on November 10, to establish a NSS Praise/Prayer Fellowship Team for the purpose of enabling each of us to become closer in our spiritual growth and develop a more personal relationship with our loving, forgiving and gracious Lord. Since the first meeting, the fellowship team has grown to include 17 players from our league. As a result, God led us to pursue the following: Spontaneous "no pressure" volunteer team prayers together after games. Small group Bible Study including players, wives and/or couples.
    12. TOURNAMENT: Possibility of a 2005 SSWS Regional Tournament (32-40 teams) in Omaha, including a NSS fellowship Dinner/Program for all NSS League players and participating tournament teams, wives, family, and guests, with personal testimonies by former New York Yankee, Bobby Richardson and others.
    The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM. There will be no Board meeting in December and the next Board meeting is tentatively scheduled for January 25, 2005, at a time and location to be announced by Tom Fiscus.

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    Apr 8, 2003
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Tom Fiscus, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes, Bill Smuck, and Jim Wilmot. Tom Cave was unable to attend. Meeting was called to order at 6:35 PM in the conference room at the Strike Zone.
    1. Player Registrations: As of this date, there are 96 players officially registered which will enable the league to have eight teams (seven returning and one new team) this spring.
    2. Player Draft Sequence: The deadline for signups is April 15th and the player draft will be conducted on April 17th. Discussion involved whether to have 12 or 13 players on each team. The returning teams will be allowed to keep a maximum of 13 returning players if the new team and the Royals have at least 12 players. Several options for the draft procedure and process were discussed. A unanimous vote was cast on the chosen selection process which will be included in the league Policies, Guidelines and Rules, and posted on our website.
    3. Irrigation System - Clarence Petersen Field: A tentative agreement that had been previously approved by the board was presented to the City of Papillion Parks and Recreation Department. Nebraska Senior Softball will contribute $3,950 towards the total cost of $6,950 for installation of the sprinkler system on Field No. 1 in 2003 with the City of Papillion contributing $3000. If we are able to use both Field Nos. 1 and 2 next year, we will contribute an additional $2,050 and the city $4,900, in 2004 towards the installation of an irrigations system on Field No. 2, with the understanding that we will be able to play on both fields at Clarence Petersen, and/or a new softball complex in Papillion, through the year 2010. The contract was accepted unanimously.
    4. Proposed Budget: Mert presented the budget for 2003. To offset some of the cost of the sprinkler system, several line item expenses were reduced. The budget was unanimously accepted. The 2003 budget is available for review by league players upon formal request.
    5. Rules and Equipment: (1) Bats Those bats that are reportedly on the illegal list may be used in our league this year, but individual players must have them re-certified for use in the 2004 season. (2) Softballs The board agreed unanimously to test and use the optic yellow 44 COR softball (in lieu of 47 COR currently used) during the upcoming fall season. ASA will require all leagues to use the 44 COR ball next year. (3) Pitching Rubber In the interest of precaution and safety, pitchers will be allowed to start their pitching delivery a distance of no more than 6 feet behind the existing rubber if they so desire.
    6. League Schedule: Dave and Tom presented a tentative plan and schedule for the 2003 season. The Spring/Summer season will be divided into the First Half and Second Half with teams also divided into two divisions, American and National. Each team will play each team in its division twice and teams in the other division once, for a total of ten games during the First Half. For the 11th and final game of the First Half, teams would be paired against the opposing division team with the same division ranking, 1 vs. 1, 2 vs. 2, etc. The Second Half would be restructured to include the top two teams from each division in one division, and the remaining four teams in the other division. There will be a post season round robin two-bracket tournament for all eight teams held during the last two weeks of July. The Fall League will commence on August 19th and conclude in late October, weather permitting. This plan was accepted unanimously.
    7. League Officers: Just prior to the conclusion of the meeting, Dave recommended that the position of Secretary become an official member of the Board and be granted full voting privileges, which was unanimously approved by other members. The following positions are vacant and need to be filled. Director Marketing & Publicity, Manager Scheduling and Statistics, Manager Website, and Marketing/Publicity Associates. If you are interested in any of these positions, please contact one of the officers.
    8. Next Meeting: The next regularly scheduled officers meeting will be announced later.
    The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM.

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    Jun 10, 2003
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Tom Cave, Tom Fiscus, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes, Bill Smuck and Jim Wilmot. Meeting was called to order at 5:45 PM at Clarence Petersen Fields in Papillion.
    1. League Schedule: The schedule has been revised to accommodate make up of all four rainout dates. The Division match-up games to end the First Half are scheduled for June 19. The 2nd half of the season will be shortened to seven games and begin on June 24 with each team playing the other seven teams once. The post-season tournament may begin as early as July 17 (two-brackets round robin seeded with a minimum of four games each team). Practice for the fall season will be held at Clarence Peterson on August 12 and 14. The Fall season will begin on August 19th using both diamonds if there are 8 teams. Games will be at 6:00 and 7:15. The Fall registration forms will be available starting July 15.
    2. Clarence Peterson Facility: The irrigation system will be installed the latter part of June or early July. The field conditions to date have been generally good. Tom Cave will arrange for two additional keys to be made for the light box to ensure there will always be someone available to turn the lights on and off. One of the players submitted a proposal to establish a separate NSS information phone Line that would accommodate notification for late rainouts. Due to the excessive cost involved, it was determined the best solution was for team managers to promptly contact via phone those players who do not have e-mail and live outside of the Omaha area if there is a rainout. In case of rain and cancellation during the games, a cel phone will be available for managers at the field to notify players who are scheduled to play later games.
    3. Budget/Financial Status Review: Mert presented a financial status report. The report is available to players upon request. A preliminary discussion of an increase in the Fall registration fee was reviewed in order to cover the cost of the irrigation system on Field No. 1 this year, and possibly Field No. 2 in the spring of 2004. The use of two fields will also be a factor in the rise in registration cost. The two fields are being used to offset the weather factor in late fall. Championship Awards. It was decided to award T-shirts to each roster player on the Spring/Summer and the Fall League champions.
    4. Policies and League Rules: It was proposed and unanimously agreed that a complete redraft of all teams take place for the 2005 season, as several teams have been playing together for 3 to 4 years. There were no immediate rule changes to be made. Consideration will be given at the next meeting to possibly modifying a few rules (bats, balls, 1-1 count, etc.) on a trial basis prior to the start of our Fall League.
    5. Other Matters: At the suggestion of one of the team managers, the board discussed the feasibility of selecting an all-star team from each division and playing an all-star game in late July. It was unanimously agreed that this would not be in the best overall interest of our league and the players. Consideration was given to holding a league picnic for players and family members. The board decided this matter could best be handled by leaving it up to the individual teams.
    The Meeting was adjourned at 6:40 PM. The next board meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 8th at 5:15 PM, at Clarence Petersen.

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    Jul 8, 2003
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Tom Fiscus, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes, and Jim Wilmot. Tom Cave and Bill Smuck were absent. Meeting was called to order at 5:15 PM at Clarence Petersen Fields in Papillion.
    1. Clarence Peterson Facility: The irrigation system is now scheduled for installation by the cities’ and our contractor, Controlled Rain, on Field No. 1 on July 15-16.
    2. Budget/Financial Status Review: Mert presented the current financial status report and four possible options for the Fall registration fee, depending on whether we use Field No. 1 or both fields, and if we have seven or eight teams. A majority vote carried that fees for our Fall League will be $70.00 for returning players and $90.00 for new players to help offset NSS’s contribution of $3,950 towards the overall cost of $6,950.00. NSS will contribute an additional $2,050.00 in 2004 towards an irrigations system on Field No. 2, but only if that field is made available to us for use in the spring of 2004. Championship Awards. Sufficient funds have been allocated in our current budget to award NSS League Champion T-shirts to each roster player on the Spring/Summer and the Fall League championship teams. Sponsors & Advertisers: Dave announced that our league has acquired two new sponsors, CBSHome Real Estate (Woody & Betty Johansen), and Tailored Travel Inc., who want to help financially support our league and have paid $300.00 and $200.00 respectively for the cost of their ad. This brings our total to eight advertisers and sponsors with each entitled to an ad on our website for one full year.
    3. Fall Schedule: The Fall registration forms will be available starting July 15. Team practices for the fall season will be held at Clarence Petersen on August 12 and 14. The Fall season will begin on August 19th using both diamonds if there are eight teams. Games will be at 6:00 and 7:15. If there are eight teams, we will have two divisions and plan to play a 1st and 2nd half of 11 games each, with the season ending on October 30, or sooner depending on the weather.
    4. League Rules: We will continue to use the 47 COR 525 compression optic yellow softball. Except for the titanium bat which is not allowed, there will be no other restrictions on the use of bats during our Fall league. However, we will most likely adopt certain restrictions in the spring of 2004 on those bats that will be banned nation wide. During our Fall league, we will use the 1-1 ball/strike starting count on the batter on an experimental basis to help eliminate some of the walks and speed up the game. The majority of league officers were not in favor of using eleven defensive players at this time. Effective August 19th, the use of the same pool and/or substitute players will be limited to one extra game per evening, unless there are not enough pool/substitute players available. Hereafter, there will be no suspended games. Any game interrupted by weather will be ruled an official game after 3-1/2 innings unless the home team is behind in the bottom of the fourth inning, in which case the game will be cancelled and replayed from the beginning, if necessary.
    5. Other Matters: At the suggestion of one of the team managers, the board discussed the feasibility of selecting an all-star team from each division and playing an all-star game in late July. It was unanimously agreed that this would not be in the best overall interest of our league and the players. Consideration was given to holding a league picnic for players and family members. The board decided this matter could best be handled by leaving it up to the individual teams.
    The next board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, at 5:30 PM, in the party room at Boulder Creek, 14208 S Street. Meeting was adjourned at 6:30 PM.

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    Aug 13, 2003
    Meeting was called to order at 5:35 PM in the conference/party room at Boulder Creek, 142nd & S Streets.
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Tom Cave, Tom Fiscus, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes, and Jim Wilmot. Bill Smuck was unable to attend as he was out of town due to a death in his family.
    1. Fall League: Final registration for the fall league was 79 players (77 returning and 2 new players) which is only sufficient to fill seven teams with a minimum of eleven (11) roster players each. The Orioles and the Phillies each had the least number (eight) of returning players, so the 2003 overall team won/loss record to date was used to determine which team was to be temporarily disbanded. A motion was made by Mert and seconded by Tom Cave to place the eight members of the Orioles team in the player draft to help complete the rosters of the other teams. The vote was 5 to 1 in favor of the motion.
    2. Double Header or Bye: After considerable discussion concerning the poor condition of Field No. 2 and the undesirability of playing the last of four games on Field No. 1 during the chilly evenings of October, a motion was made by Tom Fiscus and seconded by Rick to play all three games on Field No. 1 and have a bye each night. The vote was unanimous. The three games will be played at 6:00, 7:15 and 8:30 PM. The members of the bye team, as well as any available pool players, will have the first option to be substitutes on teams, which may be short players.
    3. Player Draft: The player draft will be held at Clarence Petersen on August 14 at 7:30 PM. A motion was made by Jim and seconded by Tom Cave to follow the existing drafting procedures as defined in our league “Policies, Guidelines and Rules. The vote was unanimously in favor.
    4. League Rules: The only rule change to go into effect this fall will be the pitch count. The batter will start with a one ball and one strike count and be allowed one courtesy foul after the second strike. This changed is being implemented for the fall season to determine the effects of speeding up the game and how the players like the change, which will be voted on at the conclusion of the season.
    5. Budget Review: Mert stated that we would have a balance of $6,518 after the deposit of the player registration fees. The balance will be reduced throughout the fall season as we pay for umpires, field usage and other miscellaneous bills.
    6. Board Meeting Minutes: A recommendation and suggestion was received from Dan Travaille to provide more specific information in the minutes of the board meetings. We will attempt to accommodate those recommendations.
    7. NSS Olympics: Ben Heald and Bill Smuck submitted to the board a proposal and offer to organize and conduct a NSS Olympics in late August or early September that would include 10 to 12 competitive events covering various skills in football, golf, and softball. They would carry out the program on their own at no cost to the league. While the members of the board support this proposal, it was suggested that this event be held sometime next spring if there is enough interest and response from players.
    8. Super Senior League: As a follow-up to Item 9 in the November 6, 2002 board meeting minutes, Dave has developed and provided a listing of 100 prospective players, ages 60 and over, and asked John Lucash to help solicit and determine if there is enough interest among existing and former players to organize a 60 and over morning recreational league for those individuals who desire to play in a less competitive league. A motion by Tom Fiscus and seconded by Rick with unanimous vote okayed the proposal for John Lucash to investigate the number of players interested in such a league. The league would play on Monday and Friday mornings at Clarence Petersen.
    9. Player Survey: A new player survey will be conducted some time during the middle of the fall season.
    10. Bat Control: The board will compile a list of those softball bats that will be banned beginning with the 2004 season by using a compilation summary of bats banned by ASA, SPA, USSSA, and other national senior softball organizations. We hope to have all of the up-to-date information published by December 31, 2003. In the meantime, it is suggested players give careful consideration to purchasing any new expensive bats between now and next spring.
    The next board meeting will be held on Thursday, September 18, at 5:15 PM, at Clarence Petersen. Meeting was adjourned at 7:40 PM.
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    Oct 22, 2003
    The meeting was called to order at 5:00 PM at Clarence Petersen Field in Papillion.
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Tom Cave, Tom Fiscus, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes, Bill Smuck and Jim Wilmot.
    1. Player Survey: Rick presented the player survey, which will be handed out on Wednesday. This survey is a compilation of comments and suggestions that Rick had received over the last few months. A few minor suggestions were made; otherwise Rick did a great job of putting together the survey.
    2. Emergency Contacts: Dave presented a list of Papillion Park and Recreation officials and maintenance personnel with phone numbers for the board to have in case of problems with the sprinkler system or other maintenance problems at the field. This list will also be posted on the bulletin board and watershed at the park.
    3. Team Awards: Awards to be given the championship teams were discussed and it was decided that sweatshirts would be purchased instead of T-shirts. They would be screen printed with the team name, Nebraska Senior Softball and league champions 2003 on the front, and the names of all eight league teams would placed on the back of the shirt. Discussion of also making sweatshirts available for purchase by league members was reviewed and unanimously approved by the board.
    4. Hot/Cold Weather Guidelines: Weather related postponements and guidelines to following in the future will be discussed during a later board meeting after the results of the player survey.
    Meeting was adjourned at 5:35 p.m. The next board meeting will include a dinner to be held on November 11 at Dave’s home.

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    Nov 11, 2003
    Those in attendance were Dave Banghart, Tom Cave, Tom Fiscus, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes, Bill Smuck, Jim Wilmot and three new board members, Cort Fernald, Ben Heald and Bob Kubat. The dinner/business meeting was held at Dave’s home.
    1. Player Survey: The results of the player survey were discussed and each issue voted on. It should be noted that all issues passed were also what the vast majority of survey respondents wanted. In all cases the Board voted to implement in the spring of 2004 what the majority of the players wanted. All issues were unanimously approved. The survey results will be available to all managers and players on our website.
      The Count: It was decided to start each batter with a one ball and one strike count. A courtesy foul will still be in effect. Motion by Rick Simodynes, second by Tom Fiscus. League Days: (A) For the Spring League, games will continue to be scheduled on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Motion by Ben Heald, second by Cort Fernald. (B) For the Fall League, games will also be scheduled on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Motion by Cort Fernald, second by Bob Kubat.
      Make-Up Games: Make up games during the Fall may be scheduled on evenings other than Tuesdays and Thursdays. Motion by Bob Kubat, second by Cort Fernald.
      Seasons Break: It was decided that we will continue to have a split season similar to the 2003 season except it will be somewhat shorter and end earlier in the Fall. Motion by Tom Fiscus, second by Mert Opfer.
      Weather Related Postponements: It was decided that games would not be played if the temperature was less than 45 degrees F. The League Commissioner will make the decision. Motion by Tom Fiscus, second by Cort Fernald.
    2. League Schedule: Spring training will be held Tuesday and Thursday evenings commencing April 6, 2004. After the player draft on April 20, we will have one team practice day on April 22, and then begin League games on April 27. There will be an 11-day rest and relaxation break between Summer and Fall seasons. Games rained out will not be made up; instead we will schedule and play the maximum number of games weather conditions will allow. Motion by Cort Fernald, second by Tom Fiscus. Motion carried unanimously.
    3. Player Registration: We will continue to have two registration periods, one in the Spring and another for the Fall. Fees for Spring 2004 will be $60.00 for 2003 returning players, and $80.00 for new players, those returning players entering the draft, and/or those that desire a new jersey. Fees for the Fall will be determined in early July 2004. Motion by Cort Fernald, second by Ben Heald. Motion carried unanimously.
    4. Player Draft: As a general guideline it was discussed and tentatively agreed that the team with the lowest winning percentage will draft first, (regardless of how many players they are short). The team with the second, third, fourth, etc., lowest winning percentage will follow in turn. The sequence will remain the same until a team drops out because its roster is filled. A new team(s) gets the first five (5) picks, including its Manager, then continues the sequence with its 6th pick after all other clubs have drafted. The concepts of this draft will be illustrated, reviewed and discussed more thoroughly and voted on at the December board meeting.
    5. Policy, Guidelines and Rules: Every effort will be made to standardize each team’s roster equally with no less than 12 and no more than 13 players. Tom Fiscus and Bob Kubat will research the bats banned by USSSA and ASA, then report back to the board.
    6. Membership Secretary Position: It was noted that at the April 8, 2003 board meeting, it was unanimously agreed that the position of Membership Secretary would become an official Board member with full voting rights. This action was inadvertently omitted from the original minutes of that meeting so Tom Fiscus made a motion that the position title be changed to Secretary and that it have full voting rights. Second by Bob Kubat and carried unanimously.
    7. Sweatshirts: A motion was made to purchase an additional 24 Nebraska Senior Softball sweatshirts to accommodate numerous players who were unable to purchase one during the initial offer in October. Motion made by Tom Fiscus, Second by Bob Kubat, and carried unanimously.
    8. Marketing: Cort Fernald is the new Director of Marketing & Publicity. He intends to have a proposed marketing and publicity plan with supporting budget for review and discussion at the December board meeting.
    9. Next Meeting/Adjournment: A team managers and rules meeting review is scheduled for December 11, 2003, at the Strike Zone Conference room at 6pm. The next League Officers meeting is tentatively scheduled for December 16, 2003.
    The meeting was adjourned at 11:15 PM.

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    Dec 11, 2003
    The meeting was called to order at 6:40.
    Those in attendance were: League Officers - Dave Banghart, Tom Fiscus, Ben Heald, Bob Kubat, Mert Opfer, Rick Simodynes and Bill Smuck. Absent - Cort Fernald; Team Managers - Duke Burgess (D-Backs), Doc Falknor (Royals), Dave Mandina (Orioles), Bob Morse (Phillies), Ed Novotny (Athletics) and Tom Smith (Expos). (Absent Rod Kidder (Marlins) who was represented by Bill Smuck. Pizza and salad dinner was served to all at 6:00 PM.
    1. Pitcher Protection: We are quite concerned about possible injuries to pitchers. After considerable discussion, it was determined that we will institute the following safety measures. (1) Pitchers will be encouraged to wear protective gear and to move back six feet from the rubber when pitching; (2) we will select the guidelines of a recognized softball governing association with regard to legalized bats; and (3) we plan to use a lower 375 compression ball on a test basis during the fall league of 2004 to compare results versus the 525 compression ball now being used.
    2. One/One Count: By a show of hands of 7-1, team managers recommended that we continue to use the 1 and 1 count with a courtesy foul.
    3. Pool Players: By a show of hands of 7-1, team managers recommended that we continue with our existing rule that states Each Pool Player who is present at least 15 minutes prior to the start of a game shall be temporarily assigned (for one game only) to a team that has less than the full team roster present.
    4. Five Run Rule: We will continue to use the five run rule in the same format as last year.
    5. Player Draft: Two improved versions of a modified mock player draft proposal were passed out to all in attendance for review and discussion. Option 1: Assuming we have one or more new teams, each new team will get the first five draft selections, including the manager, and the returning teams would then commence drafting in reverse order of their overall league record for the previous season with the new team also getting a selection each round, until each team roster is full with all available registered players. Option 2: Each new team will get the first two draft selections, including the manager, and after that they will alternate with those teams that had a sub .500 record for the previous season. Those teams above .500 will enter the selection process only after the new team(s) has drafted six players, including the manager. The majority vote by managers was 7 to 1 in favor of Option 2, which the Board will discuss and finalize at its next meeting on December 16.
    6. Windy Day Pitching Rules: It was determined that an extended width (4 inches wider) strike zone mat would be made available for use on windy days subject to approval by the two opposing team managers.
    7. League Schedule: The proposed calendar and league schedule for 2004 was discussed and approved. Please see Schedule on NSS website.
    8. Appreciation: In appreciation of their commitment and willingness to serve the members of our league, each team manager and league officer was presented a NSS sweatshirt.
    The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM.

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