1954 and 1956 Little League All-Star Teammate and Friends Reunion

On Tuesday, June 10th, some of the remaining 1954 and 1956 Little League All-Star Teammates along with friends met at the Food Connection in Grand Terrace to reminisce and recall some of the old stories and events that took place when each team played in the Little League World Series. According to Ted Housley, these were the good old days when each team began their travel adventures in Colton by playing and winning their respective district, sectional, divisional playoffs and advancing to regional playoffs in Santa Monica where they won and were on their way to Williamsport, Pennsylvania to participate in the Little League World Series. Back then there was no double elimination. Once you lost you could not advance to the next playoff. Housley said, there is no doubt that the number of members of the 1954 and 1956 teams are becoming smaller and smaller. During the luncheon teammates and friends paused to remember those who have passed away and their most recent losses, Tom Hinkle a catcher and Jerry Magness a pitcher and who both played on the 1954 All-Star team. Although attempts have been made to keep in touch with the remaining teammates, many have moved far away hence they have lost track of them and many have passed away. Of the 1954 team only 7 of the 14 players are still living and of the 1956 team only 6 remain of the 14 teammates. According to Housley, there were four original teams that made up the Colton Lion’s Little League. There were the Red Sox, Giants, Cubs and Indians. Teammates from the Red Sox who were present were John Cross of the 1956 All-Star team and Chon Calderia of the 1954 All-Star team. Wayne Thornton was a member of the 1955 All-Star team, played on the Red Sox team and was at the luncheon to reminisce and support his former teammates. Representing the Giants was Bob Woolery who was a left handed pitcher and first baseman for the 1956 All –Star team. Second baseman Ted Housley and third baseman Stan Hartford both played on the 1956 All-Star team and represented the Cubs. Ted was also there representing his brother Norm Housley who also played on the Cubs and was second baseman for the 1954 Little League All-Star team. Danny Carrasco who played on the 1954 All-Star team played first base and represented the Indians. Others at the luncheon showing their support and sharing memories of yesterday were Ron Doty representing his brother John Doty who played on the 1954 All-Star team and team supporters Herman Colton, Mike O’Keefe and Ken Hayden whose dad was the original public address announcer at the ball games. Well-known retired Colton Parks and Recreation Director Max Lofy was also present and shared many stories about what Little League has meant to him and the City of Colton over the years. Max was an umpire for many years in the various leagues. According to Housley, each team was different in size, shape and athletic abilities yet there was one person whose influence and leadership helped to make these two unbelievable team events take place. This one person happened to be a man by the name of Dee Mullins who managed both teams and had that certain something that brought out the best in each player. Without question the 1954 All-Star team had stars who, because of their size and special athletic talents, went on to play professional baseball years later. The 1956 All-Star team had a camaraderie amongst the players that was second to none and kept the “spirit to win” alive during each and every game, no matter what the score. The lessons learned from these experiences were priceless. Both teams experienced success and defeat yet because of the support of the fans of the City of Colton, they were winners. This year marks the 60th and the 58th years since these two team events took place and it’s hoped that the memory of their accomplishments and the memory of these two fine Little League All-Star teams, their coaches and special Manager Dee Mullins, will always be remembered with their inductions into the City of Colton Sports Hall of Fame in 2012 and 2013 respectfully. Housley commented that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the tragic plane crash that took the life of Ken Hubbs, 1954 All-Star and 1962 National League Rookie of the year with the Chicago Cubs. This year also marks the 75th anniversary year of Little League baseball which originated in Williamsport, Pennsylvania in 1939. Remembering the teammates, coaches and manager was something they did not forget. Dee Mullins was the manager for both teams with Norm Berch and Bud Jensen as coaches for the 1954 team and Norm Berch and Ernie Lopez Sr. as coaches for the 1956 team. These guys knew their players and their talents and limitations. Ted Housley and Danny Carrasco stated that both teams were so lucky to have them for our manager and coaches. Both Ted and Danny stated, although many years have passed our teams were grateful and thankful for the parents, sponsors and supporters who played a part in the success of these two fine Little League All-Star Teams. They commented this will not be our last luncheon and we will be looking forward to the next one. Anyone interested in attending our next reunion please contact: Danny Carrasco 951-217-1266 Cell Ted Housley 909-645-9507 Cell