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EL1 Reading Fightin Phils

Reading Phillies to host Negro League celebration

June 16, 2004 - Eastern League (EL1)
Reading Fightin Phils News Release


FirstEnergy Stadium – The Reading Phillies will celebrate "African-American Heritage Night" with a Tribute to the Negro Leagues on Wednesday, June 23 when they play host to the Harrisburg Senators at 7:05 PM at FirstEnergy Stadium. The first 2,000 fans 14 and under will receive a Marlon Byrd bobble-head doll.

The festivities will begin at 6:30 PM with a special pre-game ceremony which includes:

· A presentation on the History of African-American Baseball in Reading by Frank Gilyard, SR. Mr. Gilyard is a historiographer from the Central Pennsylvania African American Museum (CPAAM).

· Jackie Robinson's No. 42, which was officially retired in the Major and Minor Leagues in 1997, will be unveiled on a new display beyond the outfield wall where it will be permanently showcased.

· As many as 30 former Negro League players, many from the Philadelphia Stars will be introduced. (Players names will be announced when they are confirmed).

· The event will be emceed by Charlie Adams, author of Baseball in Reading.

In addition, music from the Negro League era will be played throughout the ballgame. Both the Reading Phillies and the Harrisburg Senators will be wearing a variety of Negro League uniforms, All-Star style, during the game.

CPAAM and the NAACP will both have table displays. Numerous African-American community organizations, churches and their representatives are expected to be in attendance.

The highlight of the evening will be the introduction of several Negro League players who will be in attendance at the game. The players will each throw a first pitch during the pre-game ceremonies and will be available throughout the game to sign autographs for $5.00 with all proceeds directly benefiting the Negro League Alumni.

Gates open at 6:00 PM and the first 2,000 fans 14 and under will receive a Marlon Byrd bobble-head doll. Byrd is an African-American outfielder who played for the Reading Phillies in 2001, earning Eastern League Most Valuable Player honors. He is currently in his second season as the starting center fielder for Philadelphia.

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