10,000 Rattos Can’t Be Wrong

How many Rattos does it take to make a reunion?

Robb "the human bullhorn" and Denise (Photo courtesy of Lester Mina)

If it’s an Alameda event you know there will be some Rattos in attendance. For decades they have been an integral part of the Island community. The recent Alameda All Parks Reunion was no exception. This reporter saw a Bobby, Donnie, Kathy, Marie, Robby, Stevie and a Denise. Only the Osmonds could pull more family fire power. It’s obvious that the Ratto clan has a nose for fun. The only question everyone asked was “Where’s Ray? Has he gone Hollywood?”

Bob Ratto, Don Sherratt, Bob Howard and Jim Pitts (Mina photo)

Kathy and Steve Ratto

Don Ratto and a member of that other prolific Alameda family

Last but not least, a “wanna-be-a-Ratto” poses with Denise

Bob "Rocko" Rhodes tries to achieve Ratto status (Photo by Mina)

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1966 Pee Wee Playoff Puzzler

Who's in this photo?

Here is what we know…

This photo was taken in August of 1966 during an ARPD Pee Wee League playoff game between the Krusi Colts and Rittler Wildcats. Pitcher John Snopkowski shutout the Wildcats 2-0 with his outstanding no-hit, 13 strikeout, 3 walk effort. John also added a bases-loaded  single to drive in Don Ratto and John DeLeau for the games only runs. Bob “Rocko” Rhodes and Terry Valenzuela added two base knocks each for Krusi. It should be noted that Rittler pitcher Mike Benesh was no slouch on the mound, surrendering just six hits and two runs in five innings of work.

Here is what we don’t know… who’s in the photo?

Left to right: Umpire (?); Base coach (?); Catcher – according to the box score, the backstop is either Rick Cecconi (Krusi) or Paul Hollis (Rittler); Batter (?); Third Baseman – it’s either Don Ratto of Krusi or one of the Dalby boys: Fred, Mike, or Ross (Rittler)

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