Lead-off hitters luncheon set

FALLBROOK — The Boys & Girls Clubs of North County is hosting their Lead-Off Hitters Luncheon to signify the start of their annual “Step Up to the Plate/It Just Takes One” campaign.

The luncheon will be held on Wednesday, October 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Grand Tradition in Fallbrook. The campaign involves five mock baseball teams made up of one team owner and five to nine players. The team that raises the most funds in support of the Boys & Girls Club will be declared the World Champions. The five teams in competition are:

• Dodgers (team owner Jim Butcher)

• Angels (team owner Jeff Minch)

• Padres (team owner Sean Moore)

• Mariners (team owner Jim Short)

• Yankees (team owner Mike Boman)

The goal of the campaign is to raise $155,000. Players from each of the teams will be inviting seven guests to attend the Lead-Off Hitters Luncheon. The luncheon is “free;” however, each guest will be given an opportunity to make a tax-deductible contribution in support of the campaign. At the luncheon the club will present a short program and club members will be performing.

Those who cannot attend the luncheon can still support the club by making a donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs of North County/Step Up to the Plate Campaign, PO Box 476, Fallbrook, CA 92088.

All proceeds from the Lead-Off Hitters Luncheon stay right here in the community to support activities for kids in Fallbrook, Pala and Bonsall.

Louise Small, commissioner for the campaign, stated, “Our club’s annual budget is $1.4 million. Along with our annual auction and dinner, the Step Up to the Plate/It Just Takes One campaign is one of our signature events.” We raise $250,000 from our annual auction and our goal is to raise $155,000 from this campaign. The rest of the club’s income comes from membership dues, program fees, support from service clubs, United Way, grants and investment income. Our club is facing a financial challenge this year, so this would be an excellent opportunity for the community to demonstrate their commitment to our youth.”

Anyone interested in attending the Lead-Off Hitters Luncheon on October 25 may call the luncheon hotline at (760) 728-5871. Seating is limited.