News: Greenwood – George Scherer Honored (Jul 1973)

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Scherer, Stewart, Mayenschien, Sowieja

----Source: Tribune/Record/Gleaner (Loyal, Wis.) 12 Jul 1973

On Wednesday evening, July 4, 1973, the Greenwood Baseball Park was officially dedicated and is now known as George Scherer Athletic Park.

The Greenwood City Council voted to proclaim the field in honor of Mr. Scherer.

Mayor Wilbur Stewart delivered the following message: "Friends and neighbors, residents and citizens of the city and community of Greenwood, Today we have celebrated the 4th by watching some fine contests on the ball diamond, and shortly we shall close the events by some beautiful fireworks. We pause at this time to dedicate the park and the new facilities and pay tribute to the volunteers whose enthusiasm and efforts created them, but more important, to pay tribute and honor to a man whose leadership and enthusiasm through the years has kept Greenwood to the fore in baseball."

"It isn't very often that one of us gets honored, especially by the home folks. It is more usual that those close around may be our detractors or critic. On behalf of the ballplayers, both past and present, and on behalf of the city of Greenwood and the entire community, I hereby proclaim that this park shall henceforth be called 'The George Scherer Athletic Park', in honor and tribute to Mr. Baseball himself, George Scherer."

"In order that you may continue to enjoy the ballgames and your retirement, it is the wish of your fans and friends that you have this free and permanent pass to all ballgames to be played in this park."

"My health, happiness, and baseball be yours to enjoy with our best wishes, George Scherer."

In talking to Mr. Scherer after the dedication, he was really happy and stated he felt others had done their share, at the park, but he still was very honored. He went on to say he wished to thank Mayor Wilbur Stewart and the City council for proclaiming this field in his honor. Norm Mayenschien and the softball association, and Gene Sowieja, who was broadcasting the game, and who praised George during the ceremonies, and everyone who made the George Scherer Athletic Park possible.

He went on to say it was impossible to thank everyone who was concerned in this project.

He stated that he hoped in the future that everyone will enjoy the park and that improvements will be continue to be made.

Of course, as we all know, George's first love is baseball, and he said he hoped in the future baseball lights would be installed and that baseball would return to Greenwood.

He also said he had only one regret, however, and that is that he could play again and get just one more single of the old man Sowieja's pitching.

The large crowd present gave George a big ovation and many of his former players offered their congratulations.

Of one thing we are all sure of, Mr. George Scherer, deserved this honor.