By JEFF STITT
Ed and Jen Moslander of the McKeesport Pony-Colt Baseball Youth Organization say they love their community.
And through their passion for America’s national pastime and sharing joy with their neighbors, the Moslanders and the youth organization’s sponsors have been successfully running a charity baseball tournament for the past few years. It benefits community improvements and organizations in McKeesport.
Twenty-nine teams came from across Allegheny, Butler and Westmoreland counties and beyond last month to participate in the baseball tournament at Renziehausen Park. It raised $10,000, which was donated to the McKeesport K-9 Unit.
“We just wanted to give back to the community,” Jen said.
“We’re all part of the same community, why not help each other?” said Ed, who was a longtime umpire in the McKeesport area and played baseball in his youth.
This year’s tournament was named the 2020 K-9 Classic, and all the proceeds were given to the McKeesport K-9 unit. The decision was made after the organizers — Ed, who is general manager and tournament co-director; Jen, the concessions and creative manager and tournament co-director; and Jim Yoannone, director of fields and grounds and tournament co-director — heard that K-9 Officer Stryker was diagnosed with cancer and has been struggling with complications related to treatment.
“They do so much for the community,” Jen said.
The handlers from the K-9 unit, which has four furry officers — Farkle, Ryco, Stryker and Yaro — are grateful for the donation.
“What a success!” the K-9 unit said in a prepared statement. “We would like to thank Ed and Jen Moslander for all their hard work with the 2020 K-9 Classic Tournament!
“Ed and Jen you two are truly a class act!
“Thank you to all the parents and the players that participated and all the wonderful volunteers! We want you to know it is so appreciated.”
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