66ers Honor Those Who Protect and Serve

Officials at San Manuel Stadium held an event called the 66ers Project and Serve Night in San Bernardino on July 19 to honor those who devote their lives to public safety. The money raised goes to the families of fallen officers and provides money for kids that need to go to college. "It's a great event to raise money for a great cause," said Adam Franey, assistant director of group sales. Franey said it was a way to give thanks to the people protecting the streets. Show manager Joe Hudson said it was his 14th year with the organization. "It's fun," he said. "I work here everyday and I love the interactions with the fans. Tonight I look forward to sitting back and enjoying the first pitch. It's a good opportunity to see it in a different setting." The opening act before the game started was with the police officers, who demonstrated how their dogs could catch the "bad guys." They had a man wearing protective gear and acting suspicious behind trash bins. The dog was able to spot him from afar and chased after him. After the police officer's demonstration, the SWAT team came down in a helicopter with yellow smoke screen coming off the ground. Lt. H. Gomez, who has been working with the Sheriff's Department SWAT team, said he likes how families get to come out and learn a little of what the SWAT team does. Attendee Jacob Conterax said, "This event is very exciting and different. It really grabbed my attention. There's a good atmosphere with people who have good positive energy. It feels good being around their positive energy." Don't worry if you missed this event because Franey said that after this event, they're going to sit down and try to figure out how to make it bigger and better for next year. This is the second year he has done this event and he plans to improve it each time.