by Ray Sanchez 10.18.15
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“ENJOYED YOUR story of our team, the El Paso Chihuahuas, and the kudos to some fine folks. I know there’s a limitation on content but I’d like to thank the local folks working with the team that made the fun experience this summer extra special.
“To name a few:
“Angela Olivas, marketing and communications director; Juan Gutierrez, the stadium video and digital production manager (and my direct boss); Andy Imfeld, the voice on the field running the promotions; Mark Mena, who took meticulous care of the VIP’s; coach Dow Farley, who entertained with his mariachi dancing; our game day production crew and camerapersons, all locals; and my soundman, Chris Kinnane, whose day job is at Ballyhoo! Studios; the entire ticket sales team, and so many other locals.
“THE HUNDREDS of folks that get a chance to work at the ballpark are what make the visit extra special — from the youngsters to the wonderful retirees.
“Plus there’s no one like the two guys in charge: President Alan Ledford and General Manager Brad Taylor. The greatness of a team of people starts there, and these two are a special breed of businessmen.”
Adauto, often warmly referred to as “Uncle Ray,” modestly didn’t mention his own role in the list above, so I’ll do it for him. There’s no doubt that his strong, clear voice as public address announcer contributed to the.enjoyment of the fans.
TRIVIA QUESTION: There was a draft choice of the Cleveland Browns who had his number retired although he didn’t play a game for them. Can you name him? Answer at end of column.
MORE FROM Readers:
“Hi, Ray. My name is JaneyTomberlin. I just wanted to thank you for writing such a great article on Billy Stevens and the 1965 football team. My husband was an offensive lineman who also played special teams. His name is Bill “Tank” Tomberlin. He got his education at UTEP (Texas Western) by playing football and has lived here ever since. He loves supporting the athletic program and our son even works at UTEP. His number was 76 and we are proud to have ‘The Turning Point’ hanging in his study!
“I’m very excited and grateful that the 1965 team will be honored this season –something that is long overdue for a bunch of great guys!!!! Thanks again for helping El Paso realize what a great history we have in the sport!!
“Go Miners!!”
THE CATHEDRAL High School Alumni Association will be holding its annual Irish Open Golf Tournament for (believe it or not) the 27th straight year. How time flies. This year it’ll be held at Vista Hills Country Club on Oct. 16. Proceeds support scholarships for students in need who wish to attend Cathedral High School. For more info: Phillip Pineda at 495-7280 or Bradley Roe at 533-1418,
AND IF YOU want to see future PGA greats like Jordan Spieth, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, etc., mark down these dates: Nov. 6 through 8. That’s when the Sun Bowl Western Refining College All-America Golf Classic will be held at El Paso Country Club this year. As stated in the press release, some of golf’s brightest stars have traveled to El Paso to compete in the tournament since its inaugural in 1976. Alumni of the local meet have combined to win 47 majors championships and have earned over $1 billion in career earnings.
Wow.
ANSWER to trivia question: Ernie Davis of Syracuse. The Browns retired “45” after the running back died of leukemia.