Congressman Lou Barletta, State Sen. John Yudichak, State Rep. Tarah Toohil and Hazleton Mayor Joseph Yannuzzi Step Up To The Plate to Help Raise Funds for Little League Field Improvements
HAZLETON, PA – Today, in a Hazleton City Hall press conference, U.S. Congressman Lou Barletta, State Senator John Yudichak, State Representative Tarah Toohil, and Hazleton Mayor Joseph Yannuzzi joined Hazleton Little League officials Ed Shoepe and Joe Downing to promote a holiday-themed fundraising event titled “A Magical Christmas,” a live performance on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 1:00 pm at Hazleton Area High School. The show will feature the family-friendly illusions of nationally acclaimed magician, Gemini, who gave press conference attendees a sneak peek of his show by cutting a woman into thirds. Proceeds from show sponsorships, corporate contributions and ticket sales will benefit the popular Hazleton Little League and have been earmarked for the complete restoration of the press box and concession stand, as well as for a new Field House roof and improvements to the ball fields. Organizers hope the event becomes an annual tradition.
“All of us who care deeply about the future of our Little League program are truly excited about this unique fundraising event,” says Ed Shoepe, President of the Hazleton Little League, which was founded more than 50 years ago. “We are indebted to Congressman Barletta, Senator Yudichak, Representative Toohil and Mayor Yannuzzi for stepping up to the plate for 400 Hazleton-area children who participate in our Little League program. There’s no more magical time of the year than the Christmas season and we couldn’t think of a more fun way to raise money for the Little League than a magic show with a world-class illusionist like Gemini. We look forward to packing the Hazleton High auditorium this Saturday. In keeping with the season of giving, we will have some great raffle prizes for many children in attendance. Best of all, tickets are a very reasonable $10 each, which includes admission for one adult and two children. It will be the best show in town that will directly benefit 400 great kids enrolled in the top Little League program in Northeastern Pennsylvania.”
Tickets for “A Magical Christmas” are on sale now at Bob’s Sporting Goods (133 N. Wyoming), Alta Pizzeria (380 S. Poplar), Sorrento’s Restaurant (462 Centre), June Ann’s Salon (1223 W. 15th), Puffs ‘n Pics (800-820 W. 15th), and Polanco General Services (109 N. Wyoming). Such sponsors as the Standard-Speaker, Sam-Son Productions, Hazleton Creek Properties, De Angelo Brothers, Inc., and Globe Printer have pledged their direct and in-kind support of the fundraiser.
The proud, half century-old Hazleton Little League consists of 400 kids, ages 4 to 12, who play for 24 teams divided into six divisions. In addition, there is a Challenger Division, composed of physically and cognitively-challenged children of all ages, the only such program of its kind in Little League District 18. For more information, visit www.hazletonlittleleague.com.
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