Given the past week, it’s been all too easy to focus on problems and concerns, but there are some positive things worthy of mention about the organization and the new ballpark.
First of all, the Nationals announced partnerships with the Earth Conservation Corps and the Hopkins Branch of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington today. The goal of the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation’s Neighborhood Initiate is to support local non-profits with grants, donations and resources.
The Earth Conservation Corps received a grant of $40,000 for three years to assist with revitalization of the Anacostia River and the development of area youth. The Boys & Girls Club received $50,000. The organization supports area youth and teens, providing enrichment activities, computer labs, sports clubs, homework help and mentoring.
Upon announcing the partnerships, Elijah Dukes and Joel Hanrahan unveiled the “Wall of Dreams,” located in the Center Field Plaza. Baseballs on the dream wall can be purchased from $250 to $5,000. Here’s our photos from the event.
We applaud the organization’s dedication to enriching the lives of area youth and taking pro-active steps toward cleaning up the environment.
Second, last night after the 3-0 loss to the Braves, the organization launched a massive fireworks display. It sure would have been better had it followed a win, but it was certainly a nice touch. We watched the fireworks from the President’s Club seats directly behind home plate. Upon leaving, we got a little disoriented and accidentally tried to exit through the President’s Club area. Crowds had died down, so it was fairly easy to tour the area quickly before finding a real exit. Here’s the photos from that experience.
Third, being a big PB&J fan, I was really looking forward to checking out the PB&J bar in the Strike Zone area for kids. I wasn’t sure if they’d let me order there, but there seemed to be no problem. For $5.00, you can choose your bread (wheat or white), your peanut butter (chunky or smooth) and your toppings (grape jelly, strawberry jelly, honey, bananas and/or chocolate chips). I’m a little too excited about this. We all have our things.
Fourth, Wily Mo Pena is coming back tomorrow! Pena should add some serious pop in the lineup and help the other guys see better pitches. We noticed at spring training that Pena is a natural leader as well. He’s always jumping around, talking to everyone, laughing and getting his teamates pumped. I think we’ve been missing more than his bat. We hope his leadership, personality and bat help crack this 9 game skid.
Fifth, attendance was great today, even through the rain delay! 32,532 was the announced attendance. Misery loves company. Thanks for coming out today. Please keep it up.
Sixth, Jon Rauch and his wife Erica welcomed into their family a new baby girl on Friday. Congratulations Jon!
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