August 10, 2007

By Duaa Eldeib Staff writer, Daily Southtown

A sore and tired Jim Volpe saw the light at the end of the tunnel -- and it took the form of a long-haired, guitar-carting Ted Nugent.

Volpe said he suffered neck and back injuries last month when someone by the name of Jimbo took away his camcorder and put him in a headlock as he attempted to photograph and film part of Nugent's performance at Chicago Ridge's Ridgefest.

Although the 49-year-old from Chicago Ridge began physical therapy and continues to miss work because of his injuries, all is not lost.

"My hero called me," Volpe said.

Following the phone call, Volpe's pain was soothed some more when he met Nugent earlier this week

"He shook my hand and asked me how I was doing," an overjoyed Volpe said. "I picked the right guy to be my hero."

As for Jimbo, Chicago Ridge police are still looking for the husky man -- possibly associated with the audio company that provided sound for the fest -- known only by his nickname, Chief Tim Baldermann said.

Volpe, who is considering legal action, has one message for the man who prevented him from taking pictures of the rock star he's idolized for more than 40 years.

"I got one," Volpe said. "And it's autographed."

Duaa Eldeib may be reached at
deldeib@dailysouthtown.com
or (708) 633-5960.