Tuesday, August 19, 2008

A beautiful night in the Hook

I spent last night in the lovely confines of Marcus Hook.

The occasion was one I’m always proud of, our annual Daily Times/Exelon Champs ‘n’ Charity softball tournament. You can read all about the action on the field by clicking here.

I’m more interested in what was happening off the field.

First and foremost is the real reason for the tournament. That would be the fight against cancer.

Through our partnership with our good friends at Exelon, we have now been doing this for 25 years.

Over the years any number of teams have proven themselves to be the “best by test.” But there really is only one winner.

Through the efforts of tournament director Boog Laird and his tireless mom, Josephine “Gigi” Laird, who was working the crowd from the time I got there ‘til the last pitch, we continue to raise a staggering amount of money for the American Cancer Society. Gigi by herself sold something in the neighborhood of $3,000 in raffle tickets. She took home the Barbara “Pickle” Prettie Award given to the top seller for the fifth straight year. We’re talking dynasty here. Matt Moore of James Moore Painting won the Tom k”T.C.” Clark Memorial Award, which goes to the player in the men’s division who raises the most money for the American Cancer Society. Moore kicked in a cool $1,350 into the kitty.

And that’s part of the other thing I wanted to talk about. It’s just that kind of response that is endemic to Delaware County. Every time someone is in need, and the call goes out for help, this county opens its arms, hearts – and wallets – and fills the need.

Last night was a glorious summer evening in Marcus Hook. A nice crowd turned out, first for the exhibition game that pitted two teams that dominated the tournament for years, Clank’s and Willowbrook Pub. Then for the main event. And all night people reached into their pockets to answer the bell in the fight against cancer.

It struck me as emblematic of the people who read this newspaper every day. And in truth, of the people who put it together as well. We are proud of our affiliation with Marcus Hook and our annual summer sojourn.

The locals didn’t even boo when a certain newspaper editor was introduced before the game. That puts me one up on Jimmy Rollins.

It struck me as what a community newspaper should be doing. Thanks to all who make this project possible. Hope to see you again next year.

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