Super
slugger Barry Bonds enjoys a casual pre-game visit by American
Eagle Foundation President Al Louis Cecere and Challenger, the
celebrity Bald Eagle, in
the Giants locker room at Pacific Bell Park. The majestic bird is
known for his soul stirring free-flights during the singing of
the National Anthem at the 1997, 1999, 2000 and 2001 World Series
and numerous other high-profile sporting events.
"Dusty Baker and the players were awestruck. He's an impressive
bird to meet up close. Barry showed him a lot of respect and even
asked to touch his wings," said Al Louis Cecere, President of
the eagle preservation group.
Bonds and the San Francisco Giants team members signed a baseball
to be used as a fundraiser for the non-profit organization (www.eagles.org).
The Giants also donated $10,000 to help care for Challenger and his
feathered friends. The Foundation is offering the ball for sale for
$250,000 to establish an endowment fund for Challenger's future care.
Sound a bit pricey for a single baseball? Maybe so, but that's not
all the would-be owner will receive. As an added bonus, the special
Giants ball will be personally delivered to a generous donor by Challenger
himself. That visit will also include a private photo session and
an educational free-flight demonstration by the regal bird. In addition,
the aviary where Challenger resides in Tennessee (when he's not on
the road) will be named in honor of the donor for a five-year period.
That could be a real bargain for a person or company genuinely interested
in helping a very special American eagle.
"We're grateful to the Giants for helping give wings to the preservation
of our national bird. Other teams have donated to the cause too,"
said Cecere. "God has really used the sport of baseball to bless
us. Now, we're praying that this ball will help hit a home run for
Challenger...hopefully, Barry Bonds style."
To make the ball yours, simply call 1-865-429-0157.
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