Charity softball game helps sick kids

Angels on the Bay played its 12th annual softball charity game at Victory Field in Forest Park on June 26, donating the proceeds to local children’s hospitals.
Angels on the Bay, Inc. is a nonprofit charity organization founded in 1994 by Frank Russo, Jr., owner of a number of catering halls in the tri-state area, and managed today by his family. The charity began in response to personal experiences of loss related to pediatric illness and continues to attract and inspire others whose lives have been touched by tragedy.
“We get to raise money and see our friends,” said George Russo, a Queens lawyer who helps run the charity with his family.
The team usually gathers 20 to 25 players for the softball game each year, and a sponsor who donates $300 is matched to each player. Most of the sponsors are local businesses and unions, although some of the players are willing to sponsor themselves. Councilmember Joseph Addabbo played on the field last year.
Afterwards, everyone goes to Carosello Restaurant for food — and more fun.
“It’s always fun,” said Howard Beach resident Nick LoPrinzi, who has been playing in the game for 10 years.
This year, the game raised $6,500.
According to the group’s web site, angelsonthebay.org, all funds go directly (except for small postage and printing costs) to services and programs for children in the community who are chronically ill, developmentally disabled, or physically challenged. Funds also support education and research about terminal illnesses and buy medical equipment.
Money raised by Angels on the Bay goes to local hospitals that specialize in pediatric care, including St. Mary’s Hospital for Children in Bayside and Peninsula Hospital Center in Far Rockaway. Donations are announced at the annual Angels on the Bay Benefit Ball in October in Howard Beach, which is open to anyone wishing to attend.
The softball game is one of six annual events that Angels on the Bay organizes. The nonprofit also holds a golf outing, a bowling night and a 5-kilometer run every year.
To participate in or sponsor an event, contact Cathy Burns at 718-843-5055 Ext. 126 or write to: Angels on the Bay 162-45 Cross Bay Boulevard Howard Beach, NY 11414.