GIBBSTOWN — The South Jersey Baseball Old Timers will host their 58th annual banquet this year on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at St. Michaels Mutual Club in Gibbstown, NJ.
This year’s speaker is Larry Bowa. Special guests include tennis coach and squash champion Tim Riskie and baseball connoisseur James Vankoski.
Larry Bowa is one of the best ambassadors for The Phillies. A World Champion, Bowa has suffered the ups and downs of championship baseball.
Perhaps he could field a question or two from our very excited organization members. The critical question might be regarding the “Safe Call” on Dodger Dave Lopes that might have cost Manager Danny Ozark his job.
Vankoski has a baseball feature that many people might be interested in. It is a baseball display of the 1957 American League Baseball Players and their autographs on a “horse Hyde” that is circulated to various baseball organizations. The autograph list includes Jim Bunning, Don Larson, Bobby Schantz and Ted Williams.
Originated by Boston Red Sox player Mickey Vernon, this wonderful feature will be with Vankoski the night of our banquet only.
The South Jersey Baseball Old Timers started out in 1968 by honoring National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee “Goose Goslin” of Salem, NJ and his tremendous baseball career playing for the Washington Senators, St. Louis Browns, and Detroit Tigers. This initial meeting was in the Ace Motors Showroom in Woodbury, NJ.
As time has gone on more and more people are enthusiastic about the Old Timers because of the annual banquet dinner menu of spaghetti and meatballs. Usually held in October, it is now being held in November because of The Phillies’ great success in playoff baseball, and belief that that success will carry the team into November.
SJBOT carries their hopes on newly acquired second baseman Luis Arraez, a dangerous hitter, and the resurgence of Alec Bohm and Bryson Stott as clutch hitters and excellent defensive players.
Some of the great “Old Timers” include Bob Gahrs and Paul Oland. Bob played outfield. Paul played the very dangerous position of first base.
Their enthusiasm for our banquet included Paul being our banquet speaker and Bob being a ticket purchaser of two tables of 10.
Our past director is Dave Hitchner, and other major contributors are Michael Cesaro and Carlo Toscano of the Mullica Hill area. From the Woodbury area, the group is grateful for the work of Dave Budd and Howie O’Neil. The First National Bank of Elmer, led by Brian Jones, was also a key sponsor. Recent speakers included Don Money and Mickey Morandini.
So, come out and fire away questions for Larry Bowa, seek his autograph, maybe win a door prize, and enjoy an evening of baseball with people who love the game and the Phils.
Tickets are $40. Mail your check to Ron Riskie, SJBOT, 1146 Tatum St. Woodbury, NJ 08096. Make checks payable to the South Jersey Baseball Old Timers.
A second option is our website for credit card purchases. Go to sjbot.org (all small letters).
Many thanks to all who support baseball and love the Phils. Hope you can make it, but don’t wait too long. 250 is our maximum number.
