BRISTOL, VT --- Sunday, Aug. 24 marked the unveiling of the the town's second Wiffle ball field. The guest list was extensive drawing attendance from as far away as Lincoln and Starksboro. The first 12,000 fans were treated to burgers and hot dogs on the house.

Groundbreaking for the first Hop bine was held on Tuesday validating rumors regarding the name of the new field. Early reviews of "The Hopyard" indicate that it favors the pitcher with vast expanses of foul territory, 80 to 85 ft down the lines with a narrow 60 degree angle in between. Though the dimensions are likely to change between the close of play in 2008 and Spring Training 2009.

In the tradition of newer ballparks there were plenty of extras at the soft opening (a 3 inning exhibition - no stats for posterity) including a sand box for the young-uns meant to double as a Heli-pad should Kobe and LeBron be able to make it back in time from Olympic glory.

The most prominent guest expected to walk the grass, however, ended up a no-show for the event leaving room for speculation that perhaps the area is already well saturated with venues. Commissioner Trot Thompson has not officially weighed in on the matter though it seems likely that he was simply not available on Sunday.

When questioned about the plans for the hops head groundskeeper Claudio replied only with "Logger Lager."