EL1 Reading Fightin Phils

Fightins Opening Night Loaded with Family Fun

Published on April 2, 2015 under Eastern League (EL1)
Reading Fightin Phils News Release


On Friday, April 17th, the Reading Fightin Phils open up the 65th season of baseball at America's Classic Ballpark when they host the Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the 2014 World Series Champions San Francisco Giants, at 7:05 p.m.

The first 3,000 adults 15 & over will receive a 65th Season of Baseball at America's Classic Ballpark Fleece Blanket thanks to CJ's Tire & Automotive Services and VF Outlet. Perfect for those cool summer nights, the fleece blanket pays tribute to the long history of FirstEnergy Stadium since being built in 1951. Over the years the stadium has seen the likes of Roger Maris, Ryne Sandberg, Mike Schmidt, Jimmy Rollins, and Ryan Howard all call the ballpark home during the summer.

One fan will also have the chance to head to Clearwater, Florida next season as White Star Tours & Travel Center give away a trip for two to Phillies Spring Training 2016. Fans can enter to win the trip throughout the game and the winner will be announced later in the night.

The night will also see local business leader and World War II veteran Gust "Gus" Kraras honored during the Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Ceremonial Flag Service. Born in 1921, Kraras immigrated to the United States when he was just 17 and found himself joining the US Army soon after. He served in the Greek Battalion at Camp Carson, Colorado and was part of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), which later evolved into what we now know as the CIA.

Kraras was honorably discharged on November 15, 1945 and he took up residence in Reading where his brother John lived with his family. He went into business with his brother and later, opened up several restaurants in the Reading area and in Wildwood, New Jersey. The Kraras family went on to own and operate numerous restaurants and hotels in the seaside town for over five decades.

He met his wife Stella Dialectos upon returning from the war and married in 1946. They had three children: Chris Kraras, Angel Kraras Cammarano, and Patricia Kraras Donahue. Gus is still involved actively in his business ventures and church community in the Reading and Wildwood areas.

During the pre-game, local favorites The Uptown Band will play on the Weston Center Winning Smiles Stage. Over the years, The Uptown Band has grown from a regional cover band to became a national and international sensation following the release of their debut album Waiting for Her. Founded by Erich Cawalla and Jenifer Kinder in 2006, the band plays everything from the realm of rock, pop, jazz, and funk while mixing in some of their original songs.

The night also features Miller Lite Happy Hour in Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. where all beer is $1 off at concession stands and bars. Phunland will also be holding its Kids Happy Half Hour where the first 30 minutes of happy hour are free thanks to Redner's Fightins Kids Club.

Tickets for Opening Night and the 2015 season presented by Pepsi can be purchased online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, or by visiting the Fightins Box Office located at FirstEnergy Stadium.

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Eastern League Stories from April 2, 2015


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