Negro League Commemorative Night, June 30th

The 12th annual Negro League Commemorative Night will be held at Commerce Bank Park on June 30, 2008. The Harrisburg Senators will host the Bowie Baysox, Double-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles.

Senators GM Randy Whitaker had these comments regarding Negro League Night:

“The night is coming together very well. We anticipate the Mayor to be on hand to participate. We'll recognize and honor the Negro Leagues - particularly the Harrisburg Giants. The surviving members of the team will be on hand to be introduced. They are:

Tom Hailey, Leo "Syke" Burnette, Ezell "Zeke" Jones, Ed "G.G." Burton, Bruno DiMartile, Jim Weedon, Wilbur "Willie" Fordham, Peter "Tomato" Dickey, Eddie Nork, Danny Werner, Elwood Harrell, Bobby Pae

There will also be a short recognition of Negro League star Clarence "Fats" Jenkins by noted Negro League scholar Ted Knorr.

Former Harrisburg Giant Danny Werner will throw out the first pitch.

The Senators will wear Negro League uniforms for the game.”

Here at Senators Fans Unite, I plan to commemorate Negro League players starting June 23 thru June 30. Over the course of 8-days I plan to post a variety of Negro League information including facts, trivia, photos and links to web sites.

On Friday, June 27 I plan to post a very special article on Negro League player, author and local legend Willie Fordham. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to interview Willie a few months ago. He talked about his life, overcoming adversity, experiences, and his love of baseball.

In keeping with the Willie Fordham theme, I also plan to write a review of his book, “I Gave it my Best Shot.” Which I hope to have post prior to June 30th.