Just an update on the fundraiser fastball exhibition games that will be taking place at Lancaster Park on June 5th. First game gets underway at 7pm and pits the Niagara Snappers against the California Lumberkings, second game begins at 9pm with the GHFL all-stars hosting the Lumberkings.

A Ball Park Radio (www.ballparkradio.com) broadcast of both games is in the final stages and looks to be on track. Keep checking for more updates. We encourage all players, fans and coaches not only from the GHFL but from all fastball leagues to come down for a night of fastball in one of the most beautiful parks in Ontario and help support a good cause. Storm’s Deli will be on hand serving up hot food and soft drinks and you can purchase tickets to be used to bid on donated items (including a brand new Wilson glove and an Easton ball bag and many more). Also, both the California Lumberkings and the GHFL will be creating T-Shirts to commemorate the night, these will be available to purchase as well.

Proceeds from the gate and several activities at the parkincluding a 50-50 draw, silent auction and souvenir sales will be donated to Melissa Brideau. Melissa is the long time girlfriend of Niagara Falls Furyplayer Tommy Watkinson who has played ball in the Niagara Falls Men’s League for the past 15 years. Melissa is stricken with a very aggressive from of Multiple Sclerosis. Melissa is 35 years old and has reached a point in her illness where a wheelchair or scooter have become her source of mobility. Melissa is having no luck with North American treatment and is traveling to Venezuela to seek treatment from world renowned specialist Dr.Yepetz utilizing rainforest natural therapy. As one can imagine this is a verycostly endeavor but one that needs to be explored now. Dr. Yepetz has successfully reversed the effects of MS in many patients and Melissa feels this type of treatment is one of the few remaining options available for her. If treatments go well, Melissa will in all probability be revisiting Venezuela multiple times.

California and Niagara will both be taking part in the 6th annual Snapper Shootout which runs from Friday June 7th- Sunday June 9th. Both teams will be competing along with 14 others to claim more than $3500 in prize money. Previous winners of the Shootout include Niagara Snappers (2004, 2005 winners, 2007 co-winner), The Rise (2006 winner) and the Elora Brewers (2007 co-winners). Another very strong field is set for this year’s tournament.

Check back to www.ghfl.ca or www.niagarasnappers.com for more updates.