Greenwich Old Timers Honor Larry Jones

Thursday, April 5th was Opening Day for some of the Major League teams, including the New York Mets. The sun was out, and spring was in the air.

It just seemed to be a perfect day to honor Larry Jones. Larry, a friend for over 40 years, is celebrating his 40th year of coaching baseball in Greenwich, a feat which makes him the all time leader in the coaching experience department as he has been on a field for 80% of the seasons that the Greenwich Junior Babe Ruth League has been in existence. And yes, Larry is dyed-in-the-wool fan of the Blue and Orange men from Queens.

It was an honor to nominate and introduce him for this overdue recognition. Whether as a player, coach, or umpire, he has had a positive impact on my life just as he has had on thousands of other kids over these past four decades. Because he was a friend of mine and my family for as long as I can remember, the day had an even greater significance for me as he is an all-time favorite of ours.

The Greenwich Old Timers once again got it right. The first two recipients of this honor were John "The Hawk" Kavanagh and Harry Catanzaro. They, like Larry, are top of the line individuals with a lifetime of dedication to the Town of Greenwich and its youth. Without people like them, we would not be the great town that we are and the special community that we love.

God bless you, Larry. Thank you for a job well done, and may the next 40 be just as rewarding.