The Throgs Neck Little League Field has begun a series of renovations and alterations to maintain the popular field that more than 350 kids have come to depend on.
On Wednesday, March 17, the TNLL received a brand new diesel generator, manufactured by Rudox, to replace the prior generator installed in 1988.
The new generator was made possible through the $250,000 grant provided by Councilman Jimmy Vacca, who visited the field to watch the installation.
“The little league approached me because the generator was on its last legs due to age.It had broken down on several occasions and needed replacement,” said Vacca.“Without the generator evening games would have been in danger. The league does a great job and we need more things to do for our kids, not less, especially with summer now upon us.”
The generator is only phase one of a three-phase project for improvements for the TNLL.
Phase two will replace the fencing, beginning along Harding Avenue.Any remaining money will go towards the final phase, replacement and repairs to the roof and windows of the 2-story fieldhouse.
Additionally, visitors to the minors and majors fields will notice a new sign dedicating them to the memory of Leo Vitti and Robert Jonap, former league officials who passed away recently. They made the TNLL into the impressive organization it is today.
“Leo was with the league 58 years as president and Bob Jonap was around for 56 years within the league,” said Frank Eisele, TNLL secretary.“They were the ones who first built this place up.They started bingo night and all types of fundraisers to raise the money to install the lights and purchase the generator.Everything was done through volunteerism.”
The field will be officially dedicated during the opening day ceremony slated for Saturday, April 17.The ceremony will begin with a parade at noon, when league players and affiliates will march from Lafayette and E. Tremont avenues to the field.
During the ceremony, community leaders, league members, elected officials and residents of the area will gather for the field dedication, opening day speeches, and the season’s starting game at 2 p.m.Guests will receive the annual journal, dedicated to Vitti and Jonap, and have the chance to participate in giveaways and raffles.
