SALISBURY, MD - Wicomico County officials honored the Rotary Club of Wicomico County for its donation to Field 7 ½ during a presentation at the Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex on Tuesday, Sept. 22.
Located between fields 7 and 8 at the Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex, Field 7 ½ is designed to provide individuals with physical or mental disabilities the opportunity to play baseball.
The Rotary Club of Wicomico County has committed $50,000 to sponsor the dugouts at Field 7 ½.
"The signage around the dugouts includes our motto, Service Above Self, and that's what we’re all committed to," said Wicomico Rotary Club Past President and Past District Governor Don Hackett. "The Wicomico Rotary Club appreciates being a part of this partnership with Wicomico County to make a dream become a reality."
Acting Wicomico County Executive John Psota expressed the County’s appreciation for this sponsorship.
"In sponsoring the dugouts at Field 7 ½, the Rotary Club of Wicomico County's $50,000 commitment is the third largest private donation associated with the project, and for that we are incredibly grateful," Psota said. "The Rotary Club of Wicomico County continues to make a difference with their support of projects like this, helping improve the quality of life in our community."
The capital campaign for Field 7 ½ kicked off last August with a goal of $400,000.
"Within a year, here we are, standing on the field ready to play ball," said Wicomico County Recreation, Parks & Tourism Director Steve Miller. "This community stepped up big time."
Small organized "play days" will be scheduled at Field 7 ½ this fall for community groups from across the Lower Shore, including Little League Challenger teams and groups from Dove Pointe and Special Olympics, among others.
While construction of the field was recently completed, two new projects are already underway. Between now and March, an inclusive playground and a sensory trail will be built adjacent to Field 7 ½.
"The Parker Complex will become a hub for kids and families with special needs, to not only enjoy this ballfield, but the playground and the trail and all that goes with it," Miller said.
"We're so excited to be able to offer this to the community," Miller said. "This is for now and for generations to come."
For more information about Field 7 ½, visit www.WicomicoRecandParks.org.
