EL1 Trenton Thunder

Boomer spreading the word about reading

Published on January 17, 2007 under Eastern League (EL1)
Trenton Thunder News Release


(Trenton, NJ) - The Trenton Thunder, the Double-A Affiliate of the New York Yankees, have announced that the Thunder and New Jersey Education Association's "Boomer's Book Buddies" literacy program is now in full swing in elementary schools around the state.

Boomer's Book Buddies is now in its 13th year and has helped spread a positive message about reading to thousands of children around the state. Each off-season, Thunder staff members bring Boomer to nearly 100 schools and conduct assemblies with the students in grades two through four.

During the visits, Boomer re-enacts the historical poem Casey at the Bat and the children are given a bookmark asking them to read five books outside of their required classroom reading. As an incentive for the children to read they earn two free tickets to a Thunder home game for completing the program.

"Boomer's Book Buddies has always been a favorite program of ours because it spreads a great message and gives kids a chance to EARN tickets to a game," said Thunder General Manager Brad Taylor.

"NJEA is thrilled to continue this program with the Trenton Thunder," said NJEA President Joyce Powell. "Not only is it fun for children, but it encourages them to read for enjoyment."

The Thunder have two additional in-school programs that are operated in conjunction with the NJEA. Along with the literacy program, Boomer takes part in the "Boomer's Baseball Tour" Geography Campaign. This geography lesson through baseball challenges students in grades five and six to use research and writing skills by having them write to other baseball teams and ask for their current pocket schedules. Each student that takes part in the program is rewarded with two tickets to a Thunder home game.

"It's Your Turn with Chase" is a program offered by the Thunder and the NJEA for K-1 students that features the Thunder's professionally trained golden retriever, Chase That Golden Thunder. During the school appearances, Chase and members of the Thunder staff visit with children and read It's Your Turn, a children's book about Thunder mascot Boomer. They are given opportunities throughout the assembly to earn tickets to Thunder games.

The Thunder currently have dates available for all of these programs. Schools in New Jersey are invited to schedule a visit through the NJEA by calling Jennifer Wilkens at 609-599-4594 ext. 2315. Schools in Bucks County, PA are asked to call Thunder Community Relations & Baseball Operations Manager Jeff Hurley at 609-394-3300 ext. 113 to schedule their date.

Trenton Thunder season tickets, mini ticket packages and group outings for the 2007 season are on sale now by calling 609-394-3300 or online at www.trentonthunder.com.

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Eastern League Stories from January 17, 2007


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