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One week before they open World Series play in Washington state and Virginia, two Babe Ruth teams appear to be well-fed. Photo, Scott Zeidman.
In a show of support indicative of the city of Culver City, local businesses are rallying to assist Westside Baseball’s two Westchester Babe Ruth World Series teams make their trips to Virginia and Washington, respectively.
Westside Baseball, which includes Culver City among other areas, had its 14-and-under team and its 15-and-under team qualify for the Babe Ruth World Series.
Only 10 teams from across the country qualify for this prestigious event. The 15-and-under team won its district title in El Segundo, its state title in Torrance and its Southwest Pacific Regional title in Tucson.
The 15-and-under World Series is in Loudoun County, VA. The 14-and-under team won its district title in Torrance, its state title in La Canada, and its Southwest Pacific Regional title in Surprise, Arizona. The 14-and-under World Series is in Moses Lake, WA.
With success comes expense, and the teams have been feverishly fundraising to offset the costs associated with taking 15 players and three coaches to each series. Enter the helpful businesses of Culver City. Culver Crossroads (4114 Sepulveda Blvd.), the new shopping center at the intersection of Washington and Sepulveda, has been instrumental in the fundraising.
Culver Crossroads’ partner Barry Knudson explained: “Supporting our communities is fundamental to Culver Crossroads. The community gives so much to our businesses, we are delighted when we can give back.”
Culver Crossroads’ Zinga Yogurt and Blaze Pizza have opened their respective businesses and checkbooks to help out. Zinga not only provided much needed financial support to the players, but also hosted a Westside Baseball night.
Zinga offers a wide variety of fat-free and low- calorie frozen yogurt flavors and over 50 toppings.
Blaze Pizza, although not yet even open, joined in the support, providing an immense donation, and a promise of further support. Blaze Pizza, recently featured on Good Morning America, features a wide array of quality pizzas at a freakishly fast speed (120 seconds for fast-fired pizza). Blaze will be opening shortly.
Joxer Daly’s, always there to support local endeavors, once again stepped up to the plate with a large monetary donation. Joxer’s owner, City Councilman Mehaul O’Leary, commented, “These are our kids. They are tomorrow’s leaders. When a team can perform at such a level, in any arena, they deserve acknowledgement, encouragement and support of their community. I’m happy to be able to help.”
Another local company, Vertical Fashions Window Coverings, likewise came up with a large donation. Owner Joe Delgado wished the team luck along with his generous donation.
Mr. Zeidman may be contacted at Scott.Zeidman@LASlots.com.
