AUGUST 2, 2009 – GODDARD STATE PARK
The Bower Bus came rolling up to the Hampton Inn around 4:30 on Friday, July 31. A record 35 passengers were ready to check-in. The players again were comped three nights lodging courtesy of the Society. A little later, the Meet & Greet commenced with delicious food from Chelo’s, fine spirits and lots of fun. Some folks got to the Hampton on their own, swelling the crowd to about 100 with board members, sponsors and some local players joining in. It was the first reunion for popular Reds forwards Larry Leach and Jim Mikol.
The Saturday night party this year was held on the Vista Jubilee, usually referred to as the Bay Queen. It was a four-hour cruise from Warren to Newport on Narragansett Bay. The evening featured a great sunset, delicious food, libations and the camaraderie of the 150 Reds family on board. The crowd agreed that the party was fantastic.
A focal point of the weekend was the recently released DVD called “When the Reds Ruled the Roost”, produced by board member, Joe Rocco. The 45-minute documentary celebrated the 51-year history of the team we loved and later received a prestigious New England Emmy Award. Rare vintage film and many colorful stories are included.
Sunday at Goddard Park was a beautiful 80-degree day with a cool breeze from the bay. Rene Rancourt again performed the national anthems for the 300+ folks in attendance. Tom McDonough with his captain’s cap did a splendid job introducing the 25 players to “Roll Out the Barrel” with Chuck Scherza commenting, “When I hear that song it still gives me goose bumps.”
The Board of Directors unanimous choice for this year’s Tops Award was fan favorite and a great Society supporter, Ray Ross. As usual, several family members made the trip with Ray. Dick Reniere, Society Treasurer, received the Directors Award. Barbara and Ann Sage accepted a Service Award on behalf of the George M. Sage Family Foundation. The Sage Family has been very generous to the Society and even helped finance the Bay Queen Event. Also receiving a Service Award was the Chelo Family, which helped to finance and sell copies of our “When the Reds Ruled the Roost” DVD.
Gallery
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Chuck Scherza almost ran out of ink signing autographs
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Players and fans dig into their BBQ Buffet dinner
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Rene Rancourt paid tribute to legends Milt & Johnny
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The Bower's showed the hop in their step on the dance floor
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The Boudreault's get ready to set sail
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The Schmidt's take their seats for the Bay Queen cruise