Pee Wee Reese Chapter meeting recap – 7/22/2017
Twenty-two SABR members and guests from the Pee Wee Reese Chapter, braving a 98-degree hot and humid day, attended the Louisville Bats game on Saturday, July 22, 2017, as guests of the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory in their air-conditioned suite. Four of our guests were under 15 years old. It was “Christmas in July” at the ballpark, and most everyone arrived early enough to take home a Buddy (Bat) Claus bobblehead.
Although the Bats looked ugly in their 8-0 loss to the Buffalo Bisons, much camaraderie prevailed in the suite. In addition, the chapter provided a fine spread of snacks and desserts. The written trivia contest presented by Dr. Jack Sullivan saw Robert Sawyer winning with 8 answers correct, and Rodger Payne and Ed Goldstein tying for second with seven correct. All received a variety of Cincinnati Reds and Pete Rose items. The silent auction items, raising funds for the Chapter, were won by Dr. Sullivan and Harry Rothgerber.
In a special surprise presentation, long-time Pee Wee Reese Chapter member and past treasurer Bud Thieman, 89, became the fifth member to receive the Home Plate Award, the highest honor the Chapter can bestow. A well-deserved honor!
Guests who appeared at the event and fielded questions included Gary Ulmer, President of the Louisville Bats and Greg Galliette, Bats Senior Vice President.
Much fun was had by all. Thanks again to the kind folks at LSM & F for donating their suite to our Chapter for the 8th year.
— Harry J. Rothgerber
SABR Pee Wee Reese Chapter president Harry Rothgerber, left, and Louisville Bats President Gary Ulmer, right, flank Bud Thieman, who received the Chapter’s highest honor, the Home Plate Award, for his 20 years of dedicated service on July 22, 2017, at the Louisville Bats game.