Wenk

July 8, 2010

By CHUCK WENK Contributing Columnist

I had a truly fun time at the June 26 tribute hosted by the Highwood Historical Society and the hard-working Lenny Innocenzi, boss of Buffo's, and Lisa Cervac, head of the society. Highwood characters I hadn't seen in decades reappeared, some in great shape and others with a bit of mileage on 'em.

For instance, the last time I saw Waddy Pigati from the Del Rio must have been 25 years ago in Vegas. I haven't been back since. Waddy looked great, and he was happy to "see" me although he can't see very well these days. (I couldn't hear him, I told him, so we were even.)

He was sitting next to Al Pierantoni and son, Dan, who operated Al & Jane's, of course. Al told me he was 91. So what. I've got ties that old and I'm still wearing 'em.

Al looked great, as did most of the local heroes who were inducted into the Highwood Sports Hall of Fame. Not all of the new inductees are still with us, but there are 10 new ones: Marv Baker, Dorothy Biaggi, Marv Fiocchi, Mario Massa, Ozzie Mazzeta, Lou Piacenza, Dom and Luca Poeta, Tom Russell (Tim's dad) and John Scornavocco. In addition, several more Highwood stars like Charlie Crovetti, Bruno Somenzi and Don Skrinar, members since 1994, were "re-inducted."

My son, Wes, and his pal Bobby Keats tell the story about being pulled out of the Alcyon Theater by my wife, who announced that Don called an "all star" game and they had to get to the field in 10 minutes. It was November, and there was snow on the ground and Don had swept it away for this final game.

For a $3 fee, Skrinar played about 80 games starting the first day of spring. I know because I caught Don when he pitched and umpired many games at Old Elm Park, where a large boulder with a plaque implanted on it commemorates Don and his dedication.

I know I forgot to mention many of the names of "Highwood Heroes" that were there June 26 and those who have passed away, but I'm not afraid. Gus Cervetti is still with us, living in Palm Springs, and he "owes" me complete protection from any Highwood roustabout who threatens me. We had a deal, and all I have to do is send him free copies of the Highland Park News.



	Wenk: Characters abundant at great Highwood tribute
	July 8, 2010 By CHUCK WENK Contributing Columnist I had a truly fun time at the June 26 tribute hosted by the Highwood Historical Society and the hard-working Lenny Innocenzi, boss of Buffo's, and Lisa Cervac, head of the society. Highwood characters I hadn't seen in decades reappeared, some in great shape and others with a bit of mileage on 'em. For instance, the last time I saw Waddy Pigati from the Del Rio must have been 25 years ago in Vegas. I haven't been back since. Waddy looked great, and he was happy to "see" me although he can't see very well these days. (I couldn't hear him, I told him, so we were even.) He was sitting next to Al Pierantoni and son, Dan, who operated Al & Jane's, of course. Al told me he was 91. So what. I've got ties that old and I'm still wearing 'em. Al looked great, as did most of the local heroes who were inducted into the Highwood Sports Hall of Fame. Not all of the new inductees are still with us, but there are 10 new ones: Marv Baker, Dorothy Biaggi, Marv Fiocchi, Mario Massa, Ozzie Mazzeta, Lou Piacenza, Dom and Luca Poeta, Tom Russell (Tim's dad) and John Scornavocco. In addition, several more Highwood stars like Charlie Crovetti, Bruno Somenzi and Don Skrinar, members since 1994, were "re-inducted." My son, Wes, and his pal Bobby Keats tell the story about being pulled out of the Alcyon Theater by my wife, who announced that Don called an "all star" game and they had to get to the field in 10 minutes. It was November, and there was snow on the ground and Don had swept it away for this final game. For a $3 fee, Skrinar played about 80 games starting the first day of spring. I know because I caught Don when he pitched and umpired many games at Old Elm Park, where a large boulder with a plaque implanted on it commemorates Don and his dedication. I know I forgot to mention many of the names of "Highwood Heroes" that were there June 26 and those who have passed away, but I'm not afraid. Gus Cervetti is still with us, living in Palm Springs, and he "owes" me complete protection from any Highwood roustabout who threatens me. We had a deal, and all I have to do is send him free copies of the Highland Park News.