Posted 7/14/2023
It was another great season for Miracle League Baseball! The 9-week season ended with a medal celebration, balloon making, and some magic! For the Merakey AVS community, the spring 2023 season was the most successful to date, because the participants got to be together and enjoy each other’s company. Within Merakey AVS, 88 individuals played and 68 staff and volunteers supported the players. Players and staff live and/or work at Merakey AVS locations including Brodhead 2, Clearview, Coleman, Evergreen, Ewings Mill 2, Great Oaks, Hookstown, Nolte, Maratta, Malcolm, Oakhaven, Patricia Hillman Miller Center, Pittsburgh Campus, Snyder 1, and Wildwood. Throughout the season, there were almost 50 community volunteers from Moon High School, Archangel Gabriel Middle School, and the company, ECSI.
Neyrchel Ludwick, Miracle League coordinator for Merakey AVS said, “This season was extraordinary because the staff and volunteers truly put their heart, soul, and expertise into making sure each player was engaged in the outfield, at bat, and in the dugout. Whether in rain or sunshine, we were out there making the most of the hour we had together with smiles and laughter. Also, the caravan of buses and vans in the parking lot was a sight to see. I appreciate all that goes into this game before we even step on the field.”
On Tuesday, July 4, residents of Merakey Delaware County IDD homes gathered to celebrate Independence Day in their community. Merakey Greenbrier attended the Newtown Square Fourth of July parade. At the end, one of the drill teams took a moment for a photo with program participants Brian, Joey, and Magda. The Merakey Vassar Ladies Julie, Sandy, and Suzanne attended the annual fireworks display in Aston. They enjoyed dancing to music and viewing the fabulous fireworks display that followed.
Program Instructor Bob Graziani was given a surprise party for his 60th birthday. Staff and individuals from Slippery Rock Program Center at Merakey AVS had fun decorating and celebrating Bob’s special day. Bob really liked sporting his birthday sash and his brand-new Little Mermaid watch! Bob has a soft spot for Disney show tunes, especially songs from The Little Mermaid. Bob has worked with Merakey AVS for over 30 years. Everyone was so glad to do something for this well-loved Program Instructor. Happy birthday, Bob!
Slippery Rock Program Instructor Megan Kober and her Aide, Christie Laderer, took their area on a picnic to McDanel’s Launch at Moraine State Park. The group spent a relaxing day near the water, playing games and blowing bubbles. Some enjoyed taking walks and soaking in the beautiful scenery. It was a refreshing change from the normal day-to-day routine, and everyone had a lovely time.
On Sunday, July 9, Genny, Wendy, and Merakey House Manager Susan White participated in the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix’s Kick-Off Rally! They participated against 90 other drivers in a fun, but competitive, mystery course that tested both their navigational and trivia skills through the Pittsburgh countryside. After the driving tour, they mingled with other PVGP supporters. The outing was a hit for all who attended!
Merakey AVS program participant Lynn visited Shell’s Sweets & Treats in McKees Rocks, PA for her favorite dessert - a milkshake! Ice cream treats are always a good idea on a hot summer day.
After several weeks of planning, members of Merakey Chester and Delaware Counties’ Consumer Advisory Group known as the Merakey Cares Group (MCG) gathered to celebrate the Fourth of July. Each member of the group volunteered to bring a dish to a barbeque hosted at the home of individuals Brian and Joseph. There was music and dancing for everyone to enjoy. The president, Roosevelt, enjoyed lawn bowling, while Dawn and Susan enjoyed cornhole and Jordan enjoyed a game of horseshoes. A special thanks to Direct Support Professional Keith Trotman for organizing and setting up this festive day. As king of the grill, Keith barbecued hamburgers, chicken, and ribs for everyone at the barbecue. Nurse Diane Dydak served up delicious fruit smoothies for all. The MCG celebrated in style and other members began discussing who will host the next celebration.
