Reunion #10

AUGUST 1, 2010 – GODDARD STATE PARK

The Bower Bus carrying 36 eager passengers into Rhode island arrived on July 30th. The Meet and Greet, the official Reunion face-off, commenced at 6:30. A delicious buffet was enjoyed and the stories got bigger and better that last year.  In attendance were first-timers Ron Attwell and his brother-in-law, Bill McCreary, both on the Reds 55-56 Calder Cup team. Dan Poliziani made a comeback this year after recuperating from surgery.

The following day was a big and important one. In the morning, a crowd of 250, including many Reds greats, gathered at the site of the old RI Auditorium at 1111 North Main St in Providence. They met to witness the unveiling of a commemorative plaque to honor both the location of the Arena where the Reds thrilled fans there for 46 years. At precisely 11:11, Reds jerseys covering the plaque were lifted as “Roll Out the Barrel” was played. Today the plaque is mounted on the North Main St. side of the site, now owned by Miriam Hospital. It’s called “The Arena” parking lot. The Auditorium was demolished in 1989.

Saturday evening saw the reunion celebrants heading to Twelve Acres Restaurant in Smithfield, RI. 160 folks were on hand to enjoy a classic “New England Lobster Bake” with some opting for steak or chicken. Music was provided by the Barleyhoppers. Some members danced up a storm, including Danny Poliziani and his grand-daughter. Buster took the opportunity to acknowledge members of his own team as we hit the Society’s ten-year anniversary. Directors’ Awards were given to Jim Clegg, Nick Azzarone and Dick Bartlett. The President’s Leadership Awards were presented to Mal Goldenberg, Tom McDonough and Bill O’Connor.

Sunday was another beautiful day at the Goddard Park Carousel. Rene Rancourt got things going with a repertoire of show tunes with many singing along. The event was officially opened with the 30 players seated on stage, including HOFers Johnny Bower, Milt Schmidt, Fernie Flaman, Willie Marshall and Gil Mayer. Former local pros Bill Bennett, Don Mellor and Tom Mellor were also acknowledged. Special recognition was given to the wives of deceased Reds players: Denise Larivee (Paul), Doreen McAvoy (George), Yolande Paille (Marcel), Angela Sweeney Pyle (Bill Sweeney), and Shirley Toppazzini (Zellio).

This year’s Tops Awards were presented to fan-favorites Bob Robertson and Gil Mayer. Service Award recipients were former Reds PR Director Vin Cimini and Bill Castro. Olympic Gold Medalist, Sara DeCosta, was honored as recipient of the Society’s Native Rhode Islander Award.

A special feature of this year’s reunion was the display of Roger Gladu’s collection of photos of over 600 Reds players with only 2 missing from the all-time roster.