GOVERNOR CRIST COMMEMORATES BASEBALL’S PRESENCE IN FLORIDA
~~ ~Governor’s Baseball Dinner honors contributions of baseball to community, economy ~ ~~
February 17, 2010
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TAMPA – Continuing his commitment to strengthening Florida’s economy, Governor Charlie Crist today will host the Governor’s Baseball Dinner to honor Major and Minor League Baseball’s economic contributions to the Sunshine State at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg. Each year, the Governor’s Baseball Dinner honors the Major League Baseball clubs, and their Minor League affiliates, who hold spring training or play year-round in Florida.
“Baseball remains one of America’s favorite pastimes and the social and economic contributions of the sport are so important to the quality of life in Florida,” said Governor Crist. “It is crucial that we continue to foster and attract baseball, and other professional sports, now more than ever to continue Florida’s legacy as a premier sports destination.”
The Governor’s Baseball Dinner, restored in 2008 by Governor Crist after more than a decade, will honor Florida’s two Major League Baseball clubs, 13 other Major League clubs who train in Florida, and the 29 Minor League clubs who play throughout the spring and summer. A recent study commissioned by the Florida Sports Foundation revealed a $752-million annual impact on Florida’s economy from Major League spring training. The same study also reported spring training supported or created more than 9,200 part-time or full-time jobs.
The Governor will recognize Hall of Famer Hank Aaron for his impact on professional baseball, as well as his philanthropy, including his work with 44 Forever. The longtime player for the Milwaukee and Atlanta Braves made history nearly 35 years ago when he hit his record 715th home run on April 8, 1974, beating the home-run record long held by Babe Ruth. Hall of Fame members Al Kaline, Robin Roberts, Tony Perez and Rich “Goose” Gossage, along with the newest Hall of Fame selection, Miami native Andre Dawson, and other former greats, will also attend. Major League Baseball Commissioner Allan “Bud” Selig also plans to attend.
Proceeds, after expenses, from the event will be donated to 44 Forever, a charitable organization created by Hank and Billye Aaron to help talented and dedicated youth achieve their goals.