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Field of Blessings
ON THE INSIDE The lastest happenings in our area Page 2
May 29, 2015
Baseball legends dedicated ball field by Christopher Cornell ADVANTAGE EDITOR
The borough of Blakely had a visit from two legendary major leaguers last weekend, and they left behind a brand new ball field. The Peckville Assembly of God church was the host, and baseball greats Darryl Strawberry and Roy White were the guests of honor, at a dinner at the Best Western Pioneer Plaza Hotel in Carbondale. The evening included a sports memorabilia silent auction and live interview/question-and-answer session with Strawberry and White. The following day, Sunday, Strawberry, who is now an ordained minister, spoke during the church’s service. Following the service, Strawberry and White threw out the first pitches at the new ballfield. The field is on the grounds of the church, but will also be available for use by leagues in the community, such as youth/adult church leagues, girls’ softball leagues, Little Leagues and T-ball leagues. Pastor Terry Drost praised Strawberry for the work he is now doing, talking to kids about the dangers of drugs “Darryl was a great player,” he said, “but he’s a better person now, because he’s resurrected his life and because of what he’s overcome.” “I enjoyed hitting home runs,” Strawberry told the crowd, “and I’m grateful for my career, but I’m more grateful God’s grace over my life.” Blakey Borough Mayor Jeanette Acciare-Mariani was on hand for the event and read a proclamation praising the church for providing Baseball great Darryl Strawberry exchanges fist bumps with a group of Little Leaguers, as Pastor Terry “this much-needed asset” to the Drost of Peckville Assembly of God stands by. PHOTO CHRISTOPHER CORNELL community.
TS_CNG/ADVANTAGE/PAGES [A01] | 05/28/15
10:45 | CORNELLCHR