"Every year it gets better and it’s something I look forward to every year," stated Ryan Zimmerman. "Not only because we, obviously, raise money and are doing good things, but it is a really, really fun event. Everyone that comes has a great time. And I think that is more important than anything else."
Our Washington Nationals star 3rd Baseman was talking about the ziMS Foundation's annual Gala & Golf Tournament held since 2006 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Now in its 5th year, The ziMS Foundation's annual fundraiser in the Z-Man's hometown will take place again the weekend of October 29 and 30th, 2010. Not only will the Friday night Gala feature hors d'oeuvres, silent and live auctions and dinner, but Hotcakes (The Number 1 Dance Band on the East Coast--according to the band's website) will be on hand at The Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hilton to provide entertainment. The Golf Tournament will take place the next morning at the nearby Red Wing Lake Golf Course. "It’s obviously exciting for us," continued Ryan. "We’ve come a long way. We’ve raised money and done some good things, but getting the word out has been more important. We’ve raised the awareness about multiple sclerosis and that’s what it’s all about."
As many may already know, Ryan's mom, Cheryl has MS. Through their efforts, the ziMS Foundation has raised the profile of this dreaded disease that effects the central nervous system. This past August, Nationals Park was even the venue for the ziMS Foundation's premiere event in the Nation's Capital. Since its inception, Ryan along with his family and friends, has raised over $500,000. Looking to make a difference in the lives of those suffering from MS, the foundation has handed out numerous grants.
Tickets to the October 29th Gala are $75. Space is limited for the Golf Tournament where the cost for foursomes begin at $1500. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hilton is the host hotel for this special weekend. And the ziMS Foundation has negotiated a special rate with the Hilton for those wishing to stay overnight.
Major League players that have competed in the golf tournament over the past few years include: Brian Schneider, David Wright, Michael Cuddyer, John Lannan, Craig Stammen & Joel Hanrahan.
Ryan Zimmerman: "I am very lucky to have some good friends in the game that come out, take time out of their off-season to support my cause. A lot of them are going to be in the playoffs (this year). But they’ve all said, if they are not playing--and we hope they go far--they will be here to support us again. That's all I can ask."
Tickets to the Gala can be ordered here. Golf foursomes and sponsorships here. Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hilton room reservations here.
"When we started the ziMS Foundation, we had no idea what we were getting into," concluded Ryan Zimmerman. "Now to be able to host events at home and in D.C.--something that can get very big when it comes to using the stadium--it’s all very gratifying. D.C. has become my home and it’s great to come out and do things in that city as well as in Virginia Beach."All Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved
4 comments:
I can't resist commenting on the pathetic renewal of Jim Riggleman's contract. No player, present or future, could possibly take the franchise seriously as long as we keep hiring our managers one year at a time.
No player, present or future, could possibly take the franchise seriously as long as we keep hiring our managers one year at a time.
Maybe it was or maybe it wasn't a good idea to re-hire Jim Riggleman, but hiring managers one year at a time? It worked out very well for the Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers under Walter O'Malley. Hall of Fame manager Walter Alston was Dodger manager for 23 years, and each and every one of those years was a one-year contract.
Nats320 and AQ--
Nats Nation needs more updates from you!
Hope you both are well.
Mr. NATural
Ed, that was Alston's decision, and his salary was comparable to his superstars. Not exactly what we have these days. . . .
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