It was all smiles for Bonnie Esposito on Friday night.
Esposito, office manager for Mahoning Valley NECA, took the mound and threw out a ceremonial first pitch during the Mahoning Valley Scrappers’ opening night festivities.
“I’ve never done anything like this before, but it was an awesome experience,” Esposito said.
Esposito was selected to throw the ceremonial first pitch due to her support of U.S. Armed Forces.
Bonnie Esposito, office manager for Mahoning Valley NECA, was one of four people who threw out a ceremonial first pitch during the Mahoning Valley Scrappers’ opening night festivities.
In April, Esposito participated in World T.E.A.M. Sports’ Face of America Ride to Gettysburg, a two-day, 120-mile bicycle and hand cycle ride from Washington, D.C. to Gettysburg, Pa. Esposito’s son, Marc, got involved with World T.E.A.M. Sports after sustaining an injury while serving overseas in the United States Air Force.
“It was truly inspirational to ride alongside veterans who have given so much,” she said. “The bike ride was taxing, but my training had me mentally and physically prepared.”
To read about Esposito’s preparation for the bicycle ride, click here.
NECA-IBEW Electricians, an association of signatory Mahoning Valley electrical contractors and IBEW locals in Youngstown and Warren, are the official electricians of the Mahoning Valley Scrappers and co-sponsored the opening night fireworks display at Eastwood Field.
Member contractors were on hand to pass out branded flying discs as fans entered the stadium.
Member contractors also got in on the fun by passing out branded flying discs to fans as they entered the stadium. The electricians also sponsor Military Appreciation Nights throughout the season.
“Our partnership with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers allows us to give back to the community and our members,” said Jack Savage, executive director, Mahoning Valley NECA. “We are driven to help support and recognize all of our military personnel in the Mahoning Valley throughout the baseball season.”
Honoring Veterans 1 Pitch at a Time
If you know of a veteran who would like to throw out a ceremonial first pitch at one of the Military Appreciation Night games, please contact Jim Houck at 330-554-5234.
