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“All-Stars” Light Up 16th Annual Jim “Mudcat” Grant All-Star Golf Tournament!

Aug 30, 2017Company News

(Binghamton, NY • August 30, 2017) Today Security Mutual Life, Jim “Mudcat” Grant, some of this year’s All-Stars, and representatives from the tournament’s four recipient organizations kicked off the 16th Annual Jim “Mudcat” Grant All-Star Tournament. The kickoff started a day of celebration that includes visits to Lourdes Hospital and the UHS Sports Clinic, an educational program for local youth, and a meet-and-greet with tournament sponsors. The tournament itself takes place tomorrow at The Links at Hiawatha Landing.

“We are delighted to be welcoming back so many of our returning All-Stars, as well as some All-Stars who are new to this great tournament,” said Security Mutual Life Chairman, President and CEO Bruce W. Boyea. “These All-Stars are deeply committed to the tournament’s mission of helping children and families in Greater Binghamton, and they demonstrate that commitment each year when they return to Binghamton. They also have such a great time that they really help the tournament grow through their positive word of mouth.”

The star returning All-Star is, of course, famed major league baseball player, entertainer and sports broadcaster Jim “Mudcat” Grant for whom the tournament is named. “‘Mudcat’ has been a true friend of Greater Binghamton for more than 16 years,” said Boyea. “He is passionate not only about helping make sure that children and their families do not go hungry, but also about communicating the importance of education and working to develop your talent, and of course, having fun while you’re doing it!”

Just as important as the celebrity All-Stars are the 30 Grand Slam and Triple Play sponsors and the many dedicated volunteers, businesses and other supporters who make the event a reality. “This tournament simply would not be possible without our sponsors and supporters,” said Boyea. “Their generosity and commitment to the children and families of Greater Binghamton certainly make them stars in our community.”

The tournament proceeds help support the educational, recreational, wellness and other programs offered by The Broome County Urban LeagueThe Boys and Girls Clubs of Binghamton and Catholic Charities of Broome County, as well as the food programs run by CHOW and Catholic Charities. In addition, a separate fundraising event will be held during the tournament, with those proceeds being used to help support U.S. veterans, particularly homeless veterans in Broome County.

Joining “Mudcat” for this year’s tournament will be approximately 35 celebrities, including two fellow Black Aces*: Fergie Jenkins and local favorite “Gentleman Al” Downing, who played for the Binghamton Triplets in 1961 prior to joining the Yankees. Among the returnees are Cy Young Award baseball great Vern Law and Pro Football Hall of Fame member Leroy Kelly. New to the tournament this year is former professional baseball player Ron Swoboda, who is best known for “The Catch” in Game 4 of the 1969 World Series. With five celebrity basketball players in attendance, the tournament will again feature some friendly hoops competition on the links, courtesy of Dick’s Sporting Goods. Dick’s has donated two hoops, which will go to The Boys and Girls Clubs of Binghamton following the tournament.

*African-American major league baseball pitchers who have won 20 or more games in a single season.

All-Star press conference

Image Caption

(l to r) Vern Law; Gina “Chirpie” Casey; Al Downing; Tournament Namesake Jim “Mudcat” Grant; and SML Chairman, President & CEO Bruce W. Boyea kick off the 16th Annual Jim “Mudcat” Grant All-Star Golf Tournament.

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